SUKHEE KANG

IRVINE CITY COUNCILMAN

Take 10 | Full biography

1. How do we get more Asian Pacific Americans (APAs) to become more civically and politically involved?
Promoting Asian Pacific American involvement in the community is simpler than most people think.  From volunteering at local non-profit organizations to attending City Council meetings to writing letters to newspaper editors, any form of mainstream involvement provides our community with knowledge and visibility.  It is essential to set positive examples at all levels – schools, businesses, non-profits, and local, state, and federal government.

2. What is your dream job?
Fortunately, I already have it – elected official in the wonderful City of Irvine, a city with a population of over 190,000 people and America’s safest master-planned community. It is a wonderful way of giving back to the community.

3. What was your childhood ambition?
I wanted to be a strong businessman.  I never imagined myself becoming a community leader or elected official, but I am very thankful to have this opportunity now. 

4. What is the biggest challenge facing APAs in politics today?
I believe Asian Pacific Americans have made excellent strides in recent years.  However, a major concern is that there is a lack of support from our fellow APAs, both in terms of financial backing and electoral votes.  Securing these two essential components will allow APAs to become more visible and influential in the political arena.  I believe we should focus our efforts in the coming years on building a strong APA voting bloc.

5. What one law would you change if you could?
I would subsidize education and health care for all residents of this country.

6. What was your first job?
Sales Associate at the Circuit City Stores, Inc.

7. What one question would you most like to have answered?
What will be my everlasting legacy?

8. What is your favorite word/sound?
Tenacity and consistency. Try your best.

9. What was the last book you read?
“What a Party” by Terry McAuliffe

10. Who/what inspires you?
I greatly respect the vision of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the struggle he endured.  His role in the civil rights movement has had a lasting impression on the face of politics in the United States, and Asian Pacific Americans are greatly benefiting from the doors Martin Luther King, Jr. opened in his time.

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