Sacramento will swear in its first Hmong American councilmember come January, KCRA 3 reports. Mai Vang, a native of California’s capital, made history this weekend as the first Asian American woman and first Hmong American to be elected to the Sacramento City Council.
Vang declared victory over the weekend when her opponent, Pastor Les Simmons conceded, The Sacramento Bee reports. At the time, Vang was ahead by nearly 700 votes.
“Since we’ve launched our grassroots campaign, I’ve been inspired by so many of you — our youth, elders, residents, community leaders, and everyone else who helped make a difference in this campaign,” Vang said via Instagram.
“To all the young folx and Hmong daughters — I hope you know that there is a community that is hungry for your leadership. You are not alone, your dreams are never too big, and I’m going to be right by your side,” Vang, the daughter of Hmong refugees and eldest of 16 siblings, continued.
Vang will be representing Sacramento’s District 8 and will replace retiring Councilmember Larry Carr, KCRA 3 reports. Vang is currently a Sacramento City School Board trustee.
LATEST STORIES
According to KCRA 3, both Vang and Simmons contributed to COVID-19 relief efforts: Vang ‘[tackled] the education emergency,’ while Simmons led food drives and held free COVID-19 testing at his church.
“It has been an honor to run for City Council, and to have had the support and friendship of so many of you,” Simmons said, The Sacramento Bee reports. “With so many challenges facing our society, it is time for us to come together to heal and stand behind our next Councilmember and ensure she succeeds.”
According to Vang’s campaign, her priorities center around public health, affordable housing, and more.
“Helping Sacramento overcome the pandemic and its effects goes beyond providing basic services for the community – We need experienced leadership that coordinates every part of our local government in supporting those who need it the most,” Vang states. “With a Masters’ Degree in Public Health from UCLA, I will be able to take action on Day One…”
AsAmNews has Asian America in its heart. We’re an all-volunteer effort of dedicated staff and interns. Check out our new Instagram account. Go to our Twitter feed and Facebook page for more content. Please consider interning, joining our staff, or submitting a story.
