New York, October 18, 2024 – The United Nations Headquarters hosted a grand cultural event, the 2nd Global Mazu Culture Forum, celebrating the 15th anniversary of Mazu belief being listed in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Organized by the American Mazu Foundation and the World Mazu Culture Exchange and Research Association, the forum brought together cultural leaders, scholars, Mazu followers, and representatives from various sectors worldwide to discuss how Mazu culture promotes cultural exchange and health in the context of globalization. Themed “Great Love and Peace, Civilizational Exchange, and Shared Health,” the forum not only highlighted the richness of Chinese culture but also emphasized Mazu’s role as an ambassador of global peace.

Distinguished Guests Showcasing Global Vision

The forum attracted numerous distinguished guests from cultural and international organizations, including Guruji H.H. Dileepkumar Thankappan, Secretary General of the UN NGO Committee on Spirituality, Values, and Global Concerns; Delois Blakely, Honorary Queen Mother of Harlem, USA; Sherrill Kazan, President of the UN World Council of Peoples; Consul Xing Yulin from the Chinese Consulate General in New York; and Lin Jinzan, Chairman of the Meizhou Mazu Ancestral Temple Board of Directors. Other prominent figures included Huang Shengfa, Founding Chairman of the American Mazu Foundation, Zhu Rongbin, Chairman of the Board, and Huang Mingping, President of the foundation. The guests delivered speeches reflecting on Mazu culture’s profound significance and its critical role in fostering peace and cultural exchange in the globalized world.



Global Impact and Historical Legacy of Mazu Culture
Mazu culture originated in Putian, Fujian Province, along China’s southeastern coast, and has been passed down for over a millennium. It has become a spiritual bond and cultural bridge for Chinese communities worldwide. Over 160 years ago, Mazu worship spread across the Pacific with early Chinese immigrants, taking root in the Americas as a source of spiritual support.
Since 2009, when Mazu belief was officially added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, its influence has rapidly expanded to 51 countries and regions worldwide. There are now over 10,000 Mazu temples globally, with more than 300 million followers. This culture not only serves as a spiritual link for Chinese communities but also plays a significant role in global cultural diversity. Its values of “virtue, benevolence, and great love” continue to promote world peace and cultural exchange.








Co-chair of the forum and American Mazu Foundation President Mingping Huang (黄明萍) delivered an emotional opening speech: “The values of great love and peace promoted by Mazu culture transcend local beliefs and represent a global cultural force. Today, we gather at the UN, the world’s highest platform for dialogue, to deepen cross-cultural understanding and encourage people from all nations to move forward together, facing shared global challenges through the diversity of our cultures.”

Cultural Dialogue and Global Cooperation: Promoting Civilizational Exchange and Shared Peace



















RongBin Zhu: A Central Leader in the Global Promotion of Mazu Culture

At this grand event, Dr. RongBin Zhu, President of the American Mazu Foundation and a key organizer, is undoubtedly a crucial figure in the global promotion of Mazu culture. Dr. Zhu has been leading efforts to expand the influence of Mazu worship, especially in North America, since the foundation’s establishment in 2014. Under his leadership, the foundation successfully built the Mazu Temple in Flushing, New York (132-15 41st Ave, Flushing, NY 11354), serving as a cultural bridge for the Chinese community through annual celebrations like the Mazu deification commemoration and pilgrimages, attracting believers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

In his keynote speech, Dr. Zhu passionately expressed his vision: “The spirit of Mazu is not only a cultural treasure of the Chinese nation but also a bridge for global cultural exchange and peaceful development. Through Mazu’s values, we can foster mutual understanding and respect between countries and jointly contribute to world peace and prosperity.” His leadership and insight have made the global promotion of Mazu culture a reality, earning him widespread praise during the forum.
Jinzan Lin: A Dedicated Guardian of Mazu Culture

As Chairman of the Board of the Meizhou Mazu Ancestral Temple, Jinzan Lin played a crucial role in the forum. He is not only a member of the Fujian Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and a Standing Committee member of the Putian CPPCC but also a key promoter of Mazu culture worldwide. Mr. Lin has made significant contributions to bringing Mazu culture to the global stage, advocating for the principle of “culture as the root, peace as the foundation.”

In his speech, Lin emphasized, “Mazu culture is not only a symbol of Chinese culture, but it also embodies humanity’s pursuit of peace and great love. Through this forum, we aim to further promote the global dissemination of Mazu culture, allowing more countries and people to feel the power of Mazu’s spirit.” His words highlighted the importance of Mazu culture in the era of globalization, resonating deeply with the attendees.

Unveiling of the “World Mazu” Statue: A Symbol of Peace and Great Love
A highlight of the forum was the unveiling of the “World Mazu Statue“, created by renowned sculptor Mr. Dong Ning. The statue portrays a majestic and graceful figure, symbolizing Mazu’s compassion and wisdom. More than just a work of art, the statue represents the cultural heritage and historical significance of Mazu. Its unique serial number “10017-093009-0950001” highlights the close connection between Mazu culture and the United Nations. During the unveiling, Mr. Dong expressed, “The ‘World Mazu’ statue is not merely an artwork but a symbol of the global spread of Mazu’s spirit and her vision of peace.” Guests offered incense to the statue, praying for world peace.
Golden Mazu and “Messenger of Peace — Mazu Statue”: A Legacy of Faith and Global Harmony

The Golden Mazu from her birthplace in Putian, Fujian, was also displayed at the forum, adding a solemn and reverent atmosphere to the event. The Golden Mazu symbolizes the enduring legacy of the Mazu faith, connecting believers around the world. Attendees offered incense, praying for world peace, family harmony, and personal well-being. Additionally, the “Messenger of Peace — Mazu Statue“, created by Master Lin Feng (Lin Hongrong), was also showcased. This piece further highlights Mazu’s role as the “Goddess of Peace at Sea,” representing her power in promoting peace and cultural understanding across the globe.
World Mazu Cultural Alliance: A Key Force for Global Cultural Promotion
In the successful promotion of this global forum, the “World Mazu Cultural Alliance” played a pivotal role. As a non-profit global organization, the alliance leverages its advanced technology platform and extensive global network to overcome language and geographic barriers, ensuring Mazu culture reaches diverse audiences worldwide. Through innovative global livestreams, real-time multilingual translations, and engaging social media interactions, the forum’s content quickly spread to dozens of countries, ensuring seamless cross-cultural dialogue. The alliance boasts a wealth of global promotion experience, utilizing cutting-edge technology in cloud computing, big data, and digital communication to enhance audience engagement and interaction.

Executive Officer Wenqi Li commented on the forum, stating: “The World Mazu Cultural Alliance is not just a technology-driven platform but an experienced global cultural promoter. Our mission is to combine technology and strategy to ensure Mazu’s spirit reaches every corner of the world.” The alliance’s innovative global promotion model and technological applications have gained widespread recognition, with multiple international cultural institutions and charitable organizations expressing interest in collaboration. This global platform’s success not only advances the dissemination of Mazu culture but also sets a new benchmark for cross-cultural exchange.
Dr. RongBin Zhu added, “By promoting Mazu’s spirit, we are not just spreading a belief but laying the foundation for global peace and cooperation. Mazu’s great love transcends cultures and borders, serving as a spiritual beacon for people worldwide.” This vision of cross-cultural dialogue and cooperation was widely supported by the forum’s attendees, offering new perspectives on global civilizational exchange.




Support from Global Leaders and Future Prospects
This forum received congratulations and support from numerous global political and cultural leaders:
- The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in New York sent a congratulatory letter, praising the forum’s role in promoting Sino-American cultural exchange.
- U.S. Congresswoman Grace Meng stated in her congratulatory letter: “The values of compassion, peace, and inclusiveness that Mazu culture advocates are exactly what our society needs. Thanks to everyone who made this possible.”
- U.S. Congressman Ted Lieu from California praised the global influence of Mazu culture in his letter, calling it a “symbol of global peace.”
- New York City Council Member Christopher Marte commended the event, saying: “This gathering has promoted cultural exchange and deepened understanding between different communities, making a profound impact.”
- New York City Council Member Sandra Ung also sent a letter of congratulations, praising the forum as an important platform for promoting multicultural exchange.
In addition, several institutions and organizations sent letters of congratulations to celebrate the success of the forum:




















Looking ahead, Dr. RongBin Zhu promised that the American Mazu Foundation will continue to promote the global dissemination of Mazu culture and foster peace and development through Sino-American cultural exchanges. Mingping Huang also summarized in her closing remarks: “Mazu culture is a bridge that transcends borders, connecting people worldwide. Through the values of great love and peace, we contribute to global prosperity and harmony together.”




































Mazu Culture Forum: Leading a New Era of Global Peace and Coexistence
Dr. RongBin Zhu, Mingping Huang, Lin Jinzan, and the World Mazu Cultural Alliance have further solidified the global path for the promotion of Mazu culture. They stated that future efforts will transcend traditional religious dissemination, increasingly integrating global philanthropy, cultural exchange, and multilateral cooperation to promote a more harmonious future based on mutual respect and trust among nations.
With the successful conclusion of the 2nd Global Mazu Culture Forum at the United Nations, this highly anticipated event not only highlighted the vital role of Mazu culture in fostering global peace and cooperation but also showcased the international influence and inclusiveness of Chinese culture in the new era. As a stage where global leaders and cultural elites gathered, the forum’s core values of “Great Love and Peace” introduced a fresh cultural dialogue and cooperation model to the international community.

In their closing remarks, UN representatives highly praised the forum, calling it not just a successful cultural event but also a peace initiative of global significance. As Mazu’s spirit continues to shine on the international stage, its embedded ideals of peace and harmony are gradually becoming a beacon for global culture and cooperation. This ancient belief will continue to contribute to global peace and prosperity, leading the world toward a new era of unity and coexistence.

A Special Thank You from the Organizing Committee of the 2nd Global Mazu Culture Forum at the UN
The successful conclusion of the 2nd Global Mazu Culture Forum at the United Nations was made possible through the enthusiastic support and congratulations of the following organizations and individuals:
Organizers:
Co-Organizers:
- Mazu Ancestral Temple, Meizhou Island, Putian
- World Chinese Association
- Xianyou Hengsheng Sculpture Group
- Lushan Mazu Culture Association
- Beijing YanTao Cultural Creative Development Co., Ltd.
- Beijing Zifan Cultural Exchange Center
- Longyan Mazu Culture Exchange Association
- Jinkou Tianhou Palace, Qingdao
- International Herbal Health Institute
- Po Wo Tong Medical Center, USA
- Baohutang Pharmacy, China
Sponsors:
- World Mazu Cultural Alliance, Mr. Li Wenqi
- World Mazu Cultural Alliance (WMCA)
- Advisor Guo Zeng Xi
Supporters:
- Putian Association of America
- American Fujian Business Association
- World Ear Medical Society
- Secretary-General Jason Zou
- Director Zhang Shouguo
- Advisor Lin Pingxian
- Vice Chairman Huang Jian
- New York Association for China’s Peaceful Reunification
- MZ Real Estate Group, New York
- Fuzhou Elderly Association of America
- Law Offices of Weng Zhenxin, New York
- American Chess Association
- Malaysian Diaspora Association of New York
- World Artists Association
- World Women’s Love Foundation
- Prosperity Community Foundation (PCF)
- International TCM Health Care Group
- Longle Middle School Alumni Charity Foundation, USA
- Fuzhou Minjiangkou Mazu Foundation, USA
- Lily International Ceramics Aesthetic Group
- Canada Mazu (Tianfei) Foundation
- Secretary-General Xie Mingyang
- Secretary-General Chen Aiping
- Chairman Cao Xiangyu
- Advisor Wei Hanying
- Chairman Lin Cifei
- Chairman Chen Aijin
- Vice Chairman Liu Wei
- Accountant Wang Wen
- Li Hongfei of Dajin Footwear
We would like to extend our most sincere gratitude to all the organizations and individuals who supported and participated in this forum. Your collective efforts made this grand event a resounding success.
This article is copyrighted by the “World Mazu Cultural Alliance” and has been translated into over 20 languages, reaching more than 50 countries and regions, demonstrating the global impact of Mazu culture. Readers from around the world can click the link below to read the version in their respective language. Editors: Lin Bingbin, Luo Fujin, New York Correspondent. Please cite the source when sharing and retain author information. Image credits: Nel Xiao Zhu, Viana, Louis, Jason.
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