With its myriad of acts, costumes, politically-incorrect slogans, clowning, and general lightheartedness, parade participants and spectators alike clearly share and value freedom of expression.
Ann Lau, Chair of Visual Artists Guild, was selected as the 2009 “Thorny Rose” recipient for her outspoken criticism of China’s human rights record and her tenacious prodding of Pasadena’s city council to take a public stand against China’s abuses before last year’s Rose Parade, which honored the Beijing Olympics.
Standing in the back seat of a vintage car, Ms. Lau waved to the parade-goers as she led the parade down the streets of Raymond Avenue and Colorado Boulevard.
Trailing Ms. Lau, supporters of various human rights organizations formed “China’s Great Firewall” to highlight the Internet censorship in China and the continuous imprisoned of internet writers, journalists, and religious persons.
