Shannon Lee says honor reflects father’s legacy as cultural bridge
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the law Tuesday afternoon, according to the office of state Assemblymember Matt Haney, who represents San Francisco and whose office announced the signing.
Bruce Lee was born in San Francisco and spent his childhood in Hong Kong before returning to the city as a teenager on May 17, 1959.
Shannon Lee said in a statement that her father’s reach has been profound. “From young people who found confidence and possibility in his philosophy, to families who finally saw themselves represented on screen, to athletes who still draw on his teachings of discipline and inner strength, his reach is profound,” she said.
The designation makes Lee the first Chinese American in California history to be honored with an annual namesake day, according to Haney’s office.