Asian Americans mark Lunar New Year amid ongoing hate crimes

By TERRY TANG
Associated Press

For two years, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders across the country have endured racist and sometimes deadly attacks fueled by the pandemic. With the start of the Lunar New Year, many are looking forward to family traditions and community celebrations. New York, Chicago and San Francisco are among the cities with parades planned for later this month in their Chinatowns. It is the Year of the Tiger, the Chinese zodiac symbol that represents strength and courage. Some say it’s the perfect time to convince Asian elders living in fear of widespread anti-Asian sentiment to join in the festivities.