Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson joined community members, elected officials, and local leaders at the South-East Asia Center’s annual Lunar New Year luncheon held Saturday 2/21/2026 at Furama Restaurant on Broadway in Uptown.
In his remarks, Mayor Johnson emphasized the City’s commitment to protecting and uplifting immigrant communities, stating that Chicago must continue to stand firmly with newcomers and long-established immigrant families alike.
The Mayor vowed to defend the working people of Chicago “regardless of the tyranny that is coming from the Federal Government.” He further pledged to “use the full force of government to build bridges and coalitions across communities, to uphold the constitutional rights, the civil rights, and the human rights of all Chicagoans.”
The event brought together Chicago’s diverse non-Asian and Asian communities to celebrate the holiday and highlight the importance of cultural connection and civic engagement.
Volunteers recognized for special services were Dr. Ashish Shen, former SEAC Board President; Todd Niemiec, architect; and Linda Logan, ESL Tutor.
Additional VIPs In attendance included:
SEAC Staff and Volunteers
