From its humble origins as a haven for Chinese immigrants, the area that is now known as Chicago’s Chinatown is a testament to the unyielding ingenuity of Chinese-Americans in the Midwest.‍

Let’s be honest: humans have been staring at the sky for eons, trying to figure out why we are the way we are. It is basically the original personality quiz. Long before we had Myers-Briggs or the viral "Which Bread Are You?" tests, we had the stars.

This past year has been a monumental collection of "firsts" and "bests," showcasing the depth of talent and resilience within our culture. From the launchpad to the boardroom, here are the defining moments that made 2025 a year of unbridled AAPI excellence.

For many, tutoring is a side job. For Adeel Afshar, it’s been a lifelong calling. That passion eventually grew into Afshar Academy, a private tutoring program designed to bring the best study habits, skills, and lessons from top universities and private high schools around the world to a wider audience.

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.

The Lunar New Year is a vibrant and joyous celebration observed by many cultures across East and Southeast Asia. While its roots lie in the Chinese lunar calendar, the holiday has been embraced and adapted by numerous countries, each having their own unique traditions and customs.

We at Chicago Asian Network understand that showing support for the queer community is not a June-only event. Hence, we have compiled a list of resources for those in the LGBTQI+ community who need help and for the allies who want to further support and inform themselves about the community.

In a historic first, 13th District Cook County Commissioner Josina Morita hosted a groundbreaking Language Access Summit, bringing together a diverse group of individuals and organizations to address the critical issue of language barriers.

Chicago lights up this October with Filipino American History Month, showcasing a fusion of cultural pride and modern flair. From performances to inspiring art and community events, every gathering celebrates the spirit and heritage of the Filipino community. Dive into a month of storytelling, connection, and celebration, honoring the past and shaping the future!

Learn more about Monica Eng, whose many stories, both existing and yet to be published, has positioned acceptance and positivity as her indelible mark in Chicago’s papers. 

While the Barbie movie effectively relayed the sad historical truth of women through a fictional trope, there are hundreds of documentaries that can truthfully show the degree that women can burn to change this. See the power of our real-life Barbies and how they blazed the world with their flair!

Although Bhutan is not a typical tour destination for those who chase whirlwind adventures, it is still worthwhile for those whose hearts are willing to journey its tranquil beauty. Here are the reasons why: