Eddie Huang speaks at the University of Washington.
There is no discounting that the International District/Chinatown had to deal with tragedy this year with the loss of neighborhood superman Donnie Chin. And the world’s and nation’s recent terrorist attacks. And questions about how we should be addressing immigration law and those who wish to be a part of our country. There is a lot to assimilate.
There was devastating loss in our community and nation, but as we approach the new year, perhaps it might be helpful to refocus on the highlights.
We have created a “happy/good” list:
— Donnie Chin will be getting a park named in his honor in the International District.
— Mayor Ed Murray officially apologized for the Chinese Exclusion Act on behalf of the City.
— The Chinatown/International District now has a task force to address residents’ concerns.
— Ana Mari Cauce was selected as the University of Washington president.
— Vandana Slatter was elected Bellevue city councilmember. She is the first Indian American to serve on the council.
— Mia Tuan was appointed as dean of the School of Education for the University of Washington.
— Development in the ID is impressive: The revival of The Publix Hotel will create a total of 125 apartments. The $24-million-dollar construction project will include the extensive rehabilitation of The Publix and the partial demolition of an adjacent building to make way for a new wing of apartments and retail space. There are also lower income housing initiatives in progress.
— Oh, and let us not forget we were lucky to have John Okamoto serve interim on the City Council when councilmember Sally Clark resigned.
— And Eddie Huang, “Fresh Off the Boat,” visited our city to a full crowd at UW!
Let’s venture into the new year with the positive. (end)