These traditions are not simply events on a calendar. They become part of the story of our city.
John initiated San Gabriel’s Independence Day Drone Celebration to create a new tradition where families and neighbors could come together and celebrate our country as one community.
He also helped establish our Memorial Day observance as an important City tradition and continued advancing a permanent Veterans Memorial Monument so that those who served our nation will always have a place of honor in San Gabriel.
These traditions are not simply events on a calendar. They become part of the story of our city.
John created the San Gabriel Lantern Festival with a simple purpose: to celebrate culture by bringing people together.
During his term as Mayor, he helped establish a ten-year cultural partnership with the Taiwan Tourism Administration, bringing world-class Taiwanese lantern artistry to San Gabriel. Through this partnership, beautifully crafted lantern displays will be provided to our City at no cost, allowing our residents to experience one of Taiwan’s most celebrated cultural traditions right here in San Gabriel.
Our freedom was not given to us without sacrifice. Generations of Americans stepped forward to serve, and some never returned home. That is why honoring our veterans has always meant more to John than holding a ceremony once a year.
He has successfully advocated for a permanent Veterans Memorial Monument at Plaza Park so future generations will have a place to remember those who served and understand that the freedoms we enjoy today came at a price.
A community that remembers its history understands its responsibility to the future.
From the skies above San Gabriel on Independence Day to the glow of Taiwanese lanterns and a permanent place of honor for our veterans — these are the moments that bring our community together, year after year.
— John Wu, Councilmember & Former Mayor, San Gabriel
