Hosted by the Chicago Asian Network alongside Chef Thai Dang, Do-Rite Donuts, Cà Phê Đá Vietnamese Coffee, Chicago Water Taxi, and Wendella Tours & Cruises, the Industry Gratitude Cruise brought together culinary professionals for a well-deserved moment of connection, appreciation, and community.

Learning each other's histories is more than an academic exercise. It helps us understand why certain symbols carry deep wounds and why accountability matters. It also reminds us that relationships built through education, dialogue, and shared purpose can withstand moments that might otherwise pull communities apart.

Across Chicago and Illinois, a new generation of women leaders is helping shape that future. They are advocating for immigrants, empowering underrepresented communities, expanding civic participation, and challenging systems that were not designed with their communities in mind. We spoke with Amanda Hwu, Vân Huynh, Danae Kovac, Amina Barhumi, and Rhea Yap. Together, their stories reveal not only how they arrived at leadership, but also what they believe it takes to build lasting change.

If you want to see what true community resilience looks like, you only need to look at the Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA).

Following the recent March primary elections, several Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) candidates have secured their places on the November general election ballot. Spanning federal, state, and county-level offices, the results solidify the roster of AAPI candidates moving forward in Illinois.

According to a recent application filed with the U.S. Department of Transportation on February 24, 2026, Philippine Airlines is seeking approval to launch the first nonstop flight between Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport in time for Summer 2026.

The Asian Giving Circle (AGC) is a grassroots philanthropic initiative under The Chicago Community Trust, and this year, they are showing the true power of collective generosity.

Michael was, at his core, a community builder. His footprints may end here, but we will make certain that the trail he blazed remains. The paths he forged will go further and create space for future generations of leaders, advocates, and community builders to walk through.

From a tense encounter between a state lawmaker and federal agents in Albany Park to the conviction in a Chinatown murder case, these incidents remind us that staying informed and connected is essential for safety and trust.

Behind the pop-up stalls, chefs stir woks and plate dumplings, their laughter mingling with the steady hum of music and conversation. But this isn’t just another food festival, it’s an act of solidarity.

South Asian heritage is rich, diverse, and deeply rooted in community. Honoring it means recognizing the stories, struggles, and strengths that continue to shape its vibrant presence today.

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities have long been part of the American story—even in ways we might not expect. From food to fireworks, their influence quietly shines through our Fourth of July traditions.