Imagine, for a moment, that you are transported back to 1975. This is the year Confucius Plaza officially opened in Chinatown. It marked a new chapter for the Chinese-American community in New York City.
Confucius Plaza stands tall as a 44-story building. It is a testament to community effort and groundbreaking achievement. This building was the first large-scale housing project, publicly funded, primarily for Chinese Americans.
Look up at the brown brick tower. Its 433 feet dominate the skyline. Confucius Plaza houses 762 apartments. It also includes shops, community spaces, and the Yung Wing Public School.
The location of Confucius Plaza is historically significant. It sits at the intersection of Bowery, Doyers Street, and Division Street. This places it just north of Chatham Square.
But Confucius Plaza is more than just a residential complex. A 15-foot bronze statue of Confucius graces the front of the building. The Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association gifted this statue. It was to show their appreciation and to celebrate the U.S. Bicentennial.
Notice the inscription at the statue’s base. A Confucian proverb is etched there beside an American flag. It praises a just government and wise leaders. Liu Shih sculpted this impressive statue.
The construction of Confucius Plaza wasn’t without struggles. Asian American activists protested discriminatory hiring practices. They claimed the DeMatteis Organization refused to hire Asian construction workers.
On May 16, 1974, 250 protestors organized by Asian Americans for Equal Employment marched. They entered the construction site. The protestors held signs in both English and Chinese. One sign read: “The Asians build the railroad; Why not Confucius Plaza?”. Another stated: “DeMatteis, you are big racist.”
Over 55 people were arrested for trespassing and disorderly conduct. However, their efforts paid off. DeMatteis eventually agreed to hire 27 minority workers.
Beneath Confucius Plaza, a section of the Second Avenue Subway tunnel was built. It was constructed concurrently with the building in the 1970s. The tunnel is lightly graffitied.
Confucius Plaza represents a unique blend of culture and community. It symbolizes the perseverance and aspirations of Chinese Americans in New York City. Its impact goes beyond housing. It fostered activism and community empowerment.
Today, Confucius Plaza remains a vital part of Chinatown. It is a lasting reminder of the community’s fight for equality. The statue of Confucius continues to inspire wisdom. It promotes just governance for all who pass by.