2005 Narcissus Queen Darah Dung
Symbolism plays a big part in Darah Dung’s life. The Narcissus Festival Queen was born on Chinese New Year’s day in 1981, the Year of the Rooster. As she celebrates her 24th birthday, she reigns as ambassador for the Chinese community in observing the lunar new year.
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Wheresoever you go, go with all your heart. — Confucius
Symbolism plays a big part in Darah Dung’s life. The Narcissus Festival Queen was born on Chinese New Year’s day in 1981, the Year of the Rooster. As she celebrates her 24th birthday, she reigns as ambassador for the Chinese community in observing the lunar new year.
Dung says it’s a good omen, and that the Year of the Rooster brings good fortune and prosperity for all. That’s something to crow about. But does the Narcissus Queen title have meaning beyond the pageantry and parades? Does ethnicity play a part in one’s ability to succeed in life and does the young generation really care about cultural values?
We asked Dung those introspective questions in between her official duties and appearances in the community. Join us behind the scenes with a beauty queen who knows her mind and speaks out for traditional values.
We catch up with Dung during a busy weekend of appearances in Chinatown. It involves hours of hand-waving, smiling, and looking poised and regal. Dung is up to the task. Spectators are huddled around the main stage of the Fort Street Mall, watching the intricate maneuvers of a martial arts group. Chinese Chamber of Commerce officers pace anxiously, awaiting the arrival of Mayor Mufi Hannemann and the Narcissus Queen and court. Soon the mayor arrives and works the crowd with handshakes and aloha kisses.
Suddenly, a slender young lady dressed in a white beaded cheong sam (traditional Chinese dress) appears from around the corner. Dung smiles and waves to the crowd, then approaches the mayor for a friendly exchange. They do not meet as strangers. Several weeks before, the mayor danced with Dung at the Narcissus coronation ball. Both move toward an elevated stage to greet the crowd, and applause resounds through Fort Street Mall.
Being in the public eye comes naturally to Dung. In addition to being named Narcissus Queen, she holds the titles of Miss Hawaii Teen 2000, Miss Kauai 2002, Miss Chinatown Hawaii and Miss Chinatown USA 2003. As she is introduced, she glides into center position among members of her court. This is her place in life for the next few months as the reigning royalty for Chinese events and festivities.
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