Taiwan Pride lit up Citi Field on Saturday during the annual AI Taiwan Day celebration. The New York Mets welcomed fans for a cultural showcase during their sold-out game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.Excitement filled the stadium as 40,000 fans watched the Mets beat the Dodgers 5-2. However, the cultural celebration stole the spotlight.
Janet Chia, chair of Taipei 101, threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Her pitch, full of emotion and meaning, marked a powerful moment. She proudly wore a jersey with “Taiwan” in bold orange and “Taipei 101” on the back. A Taiwanese flag appeared on her right sleeve and her glove, symbolizing Taiwan Pride.
“When I pitched, I knew the world saw Taiwan,” Chia told reporters. Her powerful message echoed through the ballpark.Kevin Tsay, president of the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, caught the ceremonial pitch. “Let’s cheer for Chairwoman Chia and for Taiwan,” he told the crowd.
Many supporters in the crowd wore jerseys and waved Taiwanese flags. The community’s strong presence proved Taiwan Pride remains alive and vibrant in New York.
Three major organizations helped organize this cultural event. The Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of New York, the New Jersey Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce, and the Taiwanese Junior Chamber of Commerce of New York led the charge. They sold advance tickets with special giveaways like “Taiwan #1” jerseys, baseball caps, and tote bags.
Fans also enjoyed Taiwanese-style meals, adding an authentic touch to the experience. Many attendees praised the food and the festive atmosphere.
Sam Lin, president of the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce in New York, applauded Chia’s presence. “She represents both Taipei 101 and Taiwan,” Lin said. “Everyone in the Taiwanese community should feel proud.”
Lee Chih-chiang, director-general of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, also joined the event. He participated in the opening ceremony and greeted many community members.
A special Community Spirit Award ceremony honored six individuals. These honorees have long supported Taiwanese causes in the United States.Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers and Juan Soto of the Mets drew sports fans. But this game went beyond baseball.
AI Taiwan Day offered more than just fun. It introduced Taiwan to a wider American audience. It also sparked cultural pride and unity.Above all, the event celebrated Taiwan Pride, uniting generations of overseas Taiwanese and American fans alike.
