Debbie Truong

The classes are taught by Jess Ng, a Muay Thai fighter who grew up in Queens. Ng decided to start the classes when Asian women at a recent community event indicated they feel endangered when outside.

In many places, homecoming celebrations feel more meaningful this year. At one high school in Washington, D.C., homecoming was the largest event hosted by administrators since the pandemic started.

This week, classes begin at Howard University, which has gotten a boost with its hiring of Nikole Hannah Jones and swearing in of alum Kamala Harris. But the school has a history of ups and downs.

One school returned to last year's drive-in movie theater, while another hosted about 600 personal ceremonies. In New Orleans, families celebrated with a spontaneous second line parade.