On Saturday in New York City, hundreds gathered in Chinatown to honor the memory of Pvt. Danny Chen. On Elizabeth Street, between Canal Street and Bayard Street, city officials unveiled "Private Danny Chen Way," a tribute to the local soldier who fell prey to the military's dark culture of bullying and hazing.
Street In Chinatown Renamed In Memory Of Private Danny Chen
Pvt. Danny Chen, who grew up in Chinatown, was found dead in October 2011 after enduring intolerable racial hazing and harassment from fellow soldiers while serving in Afghanistan. His death resulted in eight U.S. Army soldiers charged with various crimes, and highlighted the problem of hazing and discrimination in the military.
The city council approved the street re-naming last December. On Saturday's unveiling, Chen's mother was joined by family, friends and community members who vowed continue to remember the story of Danny Chen.
Part of Elizabeth St. at Canal St. was renamed "Private Danny Chen Way" Saturday to honor the Chinatown soldier who was driven to suicide by the relentless hazing of his fellow soldiers.
Chen's mother, Su Zhen, sobbed through the somber event, which was attended by elected officials including Rep. Nydia Velazquez and City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito.
"We will continue to remember Danny's story," the heartbroken mom said, speaking through an interpreter.
Chen's cousin, Banny Chen, 20, said, "It is really great, especially here in Chinatown. A lot of people will walk by here and understand."
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