A few weeks ago at a vigil organized by PACT, San Jose Councilmember Madison Nguyen spoke to why she stood for immigration reform. This well organized effort, involved multiple elected officials, youth and parents who spoke about why they supported the march’s sentiments. Yet Councilwoman Nguyen’s comments had folks in tears. As a Filipina-American, I felt proud to have her at the podium and representing San Jose. Madison has become a rock star of sorts nationally for being one of youngest and few Asian Pacific Islander elected officials. What struck me about her was how she spoke with rare authenticity.
The immigration debate has often been painted with a “brown” face, focused primarily on immigration from Mexico. But Councilmember Madison’s presence was a reminder that people immigrate for many reasons and in many different circumstances. She talked about how her family had fled Vietnam, how they started over with nothing and how difficult it is for families to be separated. Her story was probably more typical than atypical of first generation immigrant families and their attempt to find the American dream.
This Thursday, Stanford University is hosting a panel on Asian Americans in politics.
What is interesting is that it features elected representative from throughout many levels of government in the Bay Area.
According to statistics from the US Census and from APIAVote.org between 1990 and 2000, the Asian American population grew by 48.3 percent, more than three times the growth rate of 13.2 percent for the total national population. The increase in social awareness, combined with strength in numbers, has changed the political scene in many states. Even though Asian Americans make up just 4 percent of the U.S. population, in a close race, whose result is decided by a small margin, Asian Americans can play an important role.
Check out the panel at Stanford on Thursday – meet Madison and others share their trials and tribulations. Political agendas aside, go and be inspired by our shared stories and listen to what they hope to contribute to ensure that all can have the “American Dream”.
Details:
Defying Expectations Asian-Americans Breaking Into the Political Scene
a panel led by Professor Luis Fraga
featuring
Senator Leland Y. Yee, District 8, Assemblymember Fiona Ma, 12th Assembly District
Councilmember Mike Guingona, Daly City
Councilmember Madison Nguyen, San Jose
Councilmember JoAnne Del Rosario, Colma
Thursday, May 24
7 PM
Stanford University, Tresidder Oak Lounge
brought to you by Okada Asian-American Theme House and Asian American Student Association
On Campus Map
Download PolticiansPanel.pdf
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