Hundreds of demonstrators marched across the Brooklyn Bridge on Sunday to demand “equal justice for Susan Zhuang,” the NYC councilmember charged with assault after allegedly biting a police chief during a protest. However, the protest has drawn significant attention not only for its size but also for its organizers’ connections to the Chinese Communist Party .
The march, which began at Foley Square and ended at Cadman Plaza Park, saw protesters holding signs with slogans such as “save our community” and “equal justice for Susan Zhuang.” The demonstration was organized by John Chan, head of BRACE, a non-profit group linked to the United Front, a CCP-affiliated organization aimed at spreading communism globally.
Chan, also known as Chen Shanzhuang, is a Chinese-born businessman who leads the American Chinese Commerce Association. His involvement has raised questions about the motives behind the rally. Despite Zhuang’s attempt to distance herself from the organizers, stating she was not part of BRACE or its leadership, her office was found to have solicited donations for the group earlier this year. An email from her office invited supporters to a February Lantern Festival Parade, seeking sponsorship for the event attended by several elected officials, including Mayor Eric Adams.
This controversy comes at a time when Zhuang is under scrutiny for her actions during the Bensonhurst protest. According to her spokesperson, Zhuang intervened when she saw an elderly woman being pushed against barriers by the police. The confrontation led to her arrest on multiple charges, including assault and resisting arrest. “Susan Zhuang was a victim that day, she was trying to protect a senior citizen,” a speaker at the Sunday rally proclaimed, reinforcing the community’s support for Zhuang.
Breaking: Council Member Susan Zhuang was arrested this morning protesting a homeless shelter in her Brooklyn district. https://t.co/2tmU4x1Zt5 pic.twitter.com/CLEnsBCLc2
— Jeff Coltin (@JCColtin) July 17, 2024
As highlighted by a South Brooklyn political operative, Zhuang’s influence within local politics is substantial, having helped Brooklyn Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn secure crucial district leader positions. These maneuvers have strengthened Bichotte Hermelyn’s position within the Democratic Party.
The protest underscores the intricate web of alliances and influences shaping New York City politics. As Zhuang’s legal battles continue, the spotlight on her supporters’ affiliations with the CCP raises important questions about foreign influence in local governance. “We are all protecting the American dream,” a speaker at the rally declared, yet the involvement of organizations tied to the CCP suggests a more complicated reality.
