To Northwest Asian Weekly:
The rally for NYC police officer Peter Liang is a milestone for Chinese Americans in awakening to the importance of political activism. It was a great turnout demonstrating their support for social justice for all, including Officer Liang and Mr. Gurley, both victims of the tragic and unfortunate events leading to the accidental death of Mr. Gurley and conviction of Officer Liang.
I hope these rallies across the country will turn into real participation by Chinese Americans in political process by engaging in the movement started 55 years ago by the Freedom Riders to fight for the constitutional rights of liberty and justice for all. It’s a great start!
I want to give a “shout-out to the organizers both nationally and especially locally. It cannot be just a one-day event. It must be an ongoing process of involvement, engagement by Chinese Americans in activities regardless of political persuasions, preferences, or opinions that affect the greater community or a single individual.
We, at the local level whose lives are actually affected by what’s going on every day. Only we can engage with our neighbors to influence others and cause changes. Some local examples are — Bellevue marijuana store locations, Energize Eastside discussions, raising money for PATH, the AIF Forum, and other education efforts.
This is a great start. Let’s keep it going! (end)
— Conrad Lee, Bellevue City Councilmember