Acclaimed author and cultural historian Jeff Chang visited Punahou School to speak with Academy students about his new book, Water Mirror Echo: Bruce Lee and the Making of Asian America. The book explores how Bruce Lee challenged stereotypes, transformed global culture and helped shape Asian American identity.
Chang recalled first seeing Bruce Lee on television in the 1970s, describing him as “neither the docile Asian nor the villain – but powerful, vulnerable and deeply human.” He shared how Lee’s famous philosophy, “Be Water,” continues to inspire people to be adaptable and resilient in the face of adversity.
He also spoke about how Lee’s films, which initially played largely in Black inner-city neighborhoods, forged unexpected connections between communities of color. This cultural exchange would later echo through hip-hop – with groups like the Wu-Tang Clan referencing Bruce Lee’s legacy and seeing parallels between martial arts battles and rap battles.
During a lively Q&A, students asked about media representation, gender roles and Lee’s enduring legacy. Chang emphasized that Bruce Lee remains a symbol of strength, unity and justice, particularly in divided times. He also noted the growing visibility of Asian representation in media, noting how modern milestones – such as Michelle Yeoh’s Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All at Once – reflect the progress Lee helped spark decades earlier.
Chang’s visit left students with a powerful message about identity, solidarity and the continuing influence of cultural icons who break barriers.
