By Sung Yeon Choimorrow, Executive Director
National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF)
Nearly two years after her appointment as Acting Secretary of Labor, Julie Su has proven — beyond a shadow of doubt — that she is more than qualified to lead the U.S. Department of Labor. No asterisks, no qualifiers — just the full recognition she has rightfully earned. Julie Su has consistently prioritized the nuanced needs of working families over corporate interests and political gamesmanship. However, time is running out for her to receive the respect and title she deserves.
The National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF) recognizes Acting Secretary Su’s unparalleled understanding of the cultural and socioeconomic realities faced by Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. We urge Senator Schumer to act on Senator Manchin’s recent support and bring her nomination to a vote before the Senate adjourns. Confirming Acting Secretary Su would not only solidify her leadership but send a powerful message: working-class immigrant communities deserve a voice at the table, and their contributions to the economy and society are valued. For nearly two years, Acting Secretary Su has performed the responsibilities of Secretary of Labor, even without the official title. Her confirmation has been stalled by political posturing that obscures her qualifications and undercuts her professional accomplishments.
Acting Secretary Su’s career is a testament to her commitment to workers’ rights and civil rights. As Deputy Secretary of Labor under Marty Walsh, and now as Acting Secretary, she has protected the most marginalized among us, including low-wage workers and immigrants. Her leadership is guided by the principle that good jobs are essential not only for families but also for businesses to thrive. This understanding — rooted in both expertise and lived experience — is precisely why President Biden nominated her.
Acting Secretary Su’s journey is deeply personal. As the daughter of Chinese immigrants, she grew up working in her family’s laundromat, navigating language barriers and translating financial documents for her parents. These formative experiences gave her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by immigrant small business owners. Her advocacy for small businesses reflects this understanding, earning her endorsements from leaders like John Arensmeyer, CEO of Small Business Majority, who praised her ability to help small businesses grow.
However, it’s important to note that Acting Secretary Su’s permanent appointment would not only be a win for AAPI communities or women, it would be a win for working class families and a stronger and more equitable labor market. Acting Secretary Su has the lived experiences needed to reform and uphold a fair labor ecosystem for all. She also has a proven track record of sitting down with the business community as well as organized labor, listening deeply to all sides, and delivering results for the American economy, while protecting labor rights and advocating for working people every step of the way.
Representation in leadership must reflect values, vision, and a commitment to equity. Julie Su embodies this ideal. She has fought tirelessly for marginalized communities, not for recognition, but because it’s the right thing to do.
Senator Schumer must act decisively. Delaying a vote on Acting Secretary Su’s confirmation would not only undermine her but also fail the communities she represents and serves. She has been a trailblazer, a champion for workers, and a voice for those too often silenced. It’s time for her to receive the full respect and title she has earned: Secretary of Labor.
Sung Yeon Choimorrow is the executive director of the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, the nation’s only organization dedicated to building power with Asian American and Pacific Islander women and girls.
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