August 19, 2024, Chicago, IL – On the first day of the Democratic National Convention, the AAPI Caucus held its meeting at McCormick Place. Chaired by Bel Leong-Hong, the session focused on celebrating the achievements of the AAPI community within the Democratic Party and discussing future goals. This meeting, part of a series of caucus and council gatherings, underscored the evolving role and influence of AAPI voices in shaping the party’s direction.
The event provided a platform to reflect on the progress made by the AAPI community and to discuss strategies for further engagement and influence in the political sphere. It highlighted the growing role of AAPI voices and their impact on the party’s direction and policy priorities.
Chair Bel Leong-Hong addressed the crowd, reflecting on the caucus’s remarkable growth from its modest beginnings with 200 attendees in 2004 to a robust turnout of 1,200 registered members and delegates at this year’s convention. Hong expressed gratitude to the Chicago AAPI community and business leaders for their role in organizing the successful “Taste of Asia” event.
Hong introduced the caucus leadership team, including Vice Chair Otto Lee, Secretary Keith Umemoto, and Treasurer Amy Monk. The event also served as a platform to honor community leaders and organizations that have contributed to the caucus’s achievements.
In a historic moment, Hong shared a personal story about the caucus’s journey and the dream of having an AAPI President of the United States. This dream came closer to realization with Kamala Harris’s nomination as Vice President, which has inspired and empowered the AAPI community.
Congresswoman Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), delivered remarks highlighting that the day was also Bel Leong-Hong’s birthday. This announcement prompted the audience to spontaneously sing “Happy Birthday,” adding a festive touch to the proceedings. Chu emphasized the progress made by the AAPI community in Congress, the ongoing fight against discrimination, and the importance of continued engagement and advocacy. She also urged attendees to support the Harris-Walz ticket in the upcoming election.
A standout moment of the event was the unexpected appearance of Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, the Democratic vice-presidential candidate. Walz’s arrival electrified the audience, adding a memorable highlight to the day. Speaking with passion, Walz underscored the critical role of activism and voter participation, emphasizing the significant influence of AAPI voters in shaping the nation’s future.
Walz also made a special mention of Bel Hong’s birthday, which was met with enthusiastic applause. Following his speech, Walz joined Bel Hong, Senator Tammy Duckworth, Representatives Judy Chu, Mark Takano, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Jill Tokuda, and other AAPI Caucus members for a group photo. This moment captured the unity and shared commitment among Democratic leaders, setting a strong tone for the convention’s proceedings.
