California may soon have an official day dedicated to the most influential martial artist in history. Assembly member Matt Haney has introduced bill AB 2455, which would establish May 17 as “Bruce Lee Day” across the state.
If the bill passes, Lee would be the first Chinese American to receive a commemorative day in California law. The proposal specifically encourages public schools and educational centers to hold exercises that remember Lee’s life and his massive impact on the state’s history.
Why May 17?
The date holds significant meaning for the Lee family. While Bruce Lee was born in San Francisco, he spent much of his childhood in Hong Kong. May 17 marks the day he returned to San Francisco at age 18 to begin his life in the United States.
Lee’s daughter, Shannon Lee, serves as the CEO of the Bruce Lee Foundation. She expressed her family’s gratitude for the bill, noting that her father’s influence goes far beyond the silver screen.
Read more: New Bruce Lee Biography Examines His Role in Defining Asian America
“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,” Shannon Lee said in a statement. “My father was a bridge between cultures through his courage, and his spirit of interracial solidarity remains as relevant as ever.”
Changing the Game in Hollywood
Bruce Lee is famous for more than just his lightning-fast kicks. Throughout the 1960s and early 70s, he fought a different kind of battle against Hollywood’s limited and often racist depictions of Asian men. At the time, Asian actors were mostly relegated to roles as servants or villains.
Through hits like The Big Boss, Fist of Fury, and the legendary Enter the Dragon, Lee changed how the world saw Asian lead actors. He also starred as Kato in The Green Hornet, a role that made him a household name for TV fans.
Lee died in 1973 at the age of 32, but his influence on action cinema and martial arts remains unmatched. This new bill aims to ensure the next generation of Californians understands exactly how he changed the world.
