Martial arts icon Bruce Lee, who was born in San Francisco, will become the first Chinese American in California history with an annual namesake day. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law Tuesday officially designating May 17 as Bruce Lee Day. That's the date in 1959 that an 18-year-old Lee returned to San Francisco after spending his childhood in Hong Kong. Lee’s daughter, Shannon, says the honor is a testament to her father’s enduring legacy as a bridge between cultures. Lee is credited for challenging racial stereotypes with his portrayal of a strong, Asian male through martial arts cinema.

Actor and activist Danny Glover says he has Alzheimer’s disease. The “Lethal Weapon” star, who turns 80 on July 22, was diagnosed three years ago. He told “Today” and People magazine that he’s still coming to terms with the disease. Alzheimer’s affects more than 6 million people in the U.S. and millions more worldwide. Glover earned four Emmy nominations and an honorary Oscar in 2022. He also received awards from the NAACP and Black Entertainment Television. From 1998 to 2004, he served as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Program.

Jerry Esters proudly displays the American flag each day on his Detroit home. A few miles away, Yvonne Pistochini says there is no scenario under which she would allow the Stars and Stripes to cast its shadow where she lives. For Esters, it's about the opportunities that allowed the great-great-grandson of slaves to find success. Pistochini simply says the America identified by the flag that she currently sees is not the same country she saw growing up. A new survey conducted by The Associated Press and NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that how “Old Glory” is viewed through the lens of patriotism differs by age, political leanings and particularly race.

The Andrew Carnegie Foundation has announced this year’s “Great Immigrants, Great Americans” honorees, including Citi CEO Jane Fraser and Pulitzer Prize-winning authors Hernan Diaz and Cristina Rivera Garza. The awards, launched in 2006, celebrate immigrants' contributions to the U.S. Carnegie Foundation President Dame Louise Richardson said celebrating immigrants' contributions is especially important considering the current debate over immigration policy. Honorees like Dr. Iman Abuzeid and conductor Cristian Măcelaru highlight the opportunities and unique perspectives immigration brings to the country. And Harvard's Gregory Nagy praises the cultural diversity immigrants add to the “melting pot” of America.

From refugee camps to stitching circles, many in the Palestinian diaspora around the world are engaging with a traditional form of Palestinian embroidery as far more than a decorative aesthetic. Known as “tatreez,” they're finding in it a celebration of cultural heritage and a bridge to their homeland and dispersed communities. To many, it’s become over the decades a symbol of Palestinian identity, a vehicle for documenting history and a form of resistance. With the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, some have turned to the embroidery to raise funds, show solidarity and focus attention on the plight of Palestinians in the enclave. For some, the craft also provides an economic lifeline.

Jon Meacham is among many historians reflecting on the complex legacy of Thomas Jefferson. He notes that Jefferson's life and work resonate deeply as the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary. Jefferson embodied contradictions, advocating for both states' rights and federal power. His legacy is debated, especially at places like Monticello, where reminders of his role as an enslaver are evident. Jefferson has been claimed by both sides of major historical debates, from the Civil War to civil rights. Monticello continues to host events like July 4 naturalization ceremonies, highlighting the enduring relevance of Jefferson's ideals.

The Democratic Party is confronting its long-standing dilemmas over identity and ideology as it wrestles with populist challengers in communities of color. Left-wing insurgents are increasingly challenging legacy political institutions that often are led by Black and Latino lawmakers. The outcome could reshape the party’s power dynamics as it prepares for the upcoming elections in November. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, who's poised to be the first Black speaker of the House if Democrats regain the majority, has played down the dilemma and is focused on confronting Republicans.

Pride Month celebrations are peaking with big parades in New York, San Francisco and some other cities on Sunday. It is the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall uprising, which accelerated and transformed the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Pride events often mix celebration and calls to action, reflecting the political winds and cultural climate around LGBTQ+ rights. This month’s parades and festivals around the U.S. have unfolded as President Donald Trump works to roll back transgender rights and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. The organizers of the New York Pride march say it is vital that LGBTQ+ people have a place to march and make their presence clear.

A new Mississippi law authorizes the state's top law enforcement agency to compile a list of immigrants illegally living in the state. The law set to take effect Wednesday has sparked alarm among immigrant advocates. They fear it could target immigrants in line with President Trump's deportation plans. The law allows the Department of Public Safety to use all lawful means to identify "illegal aliens" and share information with state and local authorities. Critics argue it could lead to profiling and undermine trust between police and communities. Mississippi has one of the nation's smallest percentages of immigrants illegally residing in the state.

The Great American State Fair has kicked off on the National Mall in Washington. It's run by a group created by President Donald Trump. Visitors can find a 110-foot Ferris wheel, along with farm animals and state-themed exhibits. Some visitors feel the fair is a great idea but they also wish it were less political. States such as Montana and Texas are showcasing unique attractions. Visitors to the exhibits for Hawaii and Alaska might find unstaffed booths. Maine, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania chose not to participate. Some fair visitors say they enjoy the diversity of the event while others feel it highlights national divisions.