LA Times | Bruce Lee Day
Bruce Lee on the set of “The Big Boss,” released in 1971. [Bruce Lee Family Archive]
Los Angeles Times
California designates Bruce Lee Day, first such honor for a Chinese American
Cut to a seedy alley behind a Chinese restaurant in Rome: A dozen mobsters menace a slight young man who suddenly pulls out a pair of nunchucks. He swings the traditional stick-and-chain weapons and makes quick work of his enemies, who fall one by one, groaning in pain.
The comedic, legendary action scene is from the 1972 film “The Way of the Dragon,” written, directed and starring Bruce Lee. The martial arts star was a trailblazer, allowing Asian Americans to see themselves represented in a strong, positive light on-screen.
And now he has secured a place in California history, becoming the first Chinese American in state history to have a day designated in his honor.