SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) As the community comes together to usher in the Year of the Ox, many Asian American-owned businesses in San Jose s Little Saigon neighborhood are hopeful that better days are ahead. It s hard to see businesses suffering, said Dublin resident Lanthy Le. New Year s is not the same anymore due to COVID. it s tough.
Friday afternoon, Le was among a small group of shoppers at Grand Century Mall, which has become an unofficial gathering place, as one of America s largest Vietnamese-focused malls. In normal times, thousands from all over Northern California would visit for Lunar New Year festivities and celebrations. However, some business owners say they re barely hanging on despite their best efforts.