In a whirlwind week of engaging experiences, our cohort was fortunate enough to delve into realms we may not have explored otherwise. From a captivating talk by the Honorable Paul Cheng, Mayor of Arcadia, to an eye-opening visit to SoCal Gas, our horizons expanded as we embraced new viewpoints and uncovered the intertwining threads of sustainability, energy, and social justice.
On Monday, we gathered to listen to the Honorable Paul Cheng. As mostly progressive Democrats, we were intrigued to hear from a Republican candidate. Mayor Cheng's discourse revealed a different facet of the political spectrum, prompting us to recognize the importance of embracing diverse perspectives. His insights into governance, public service, and community engagement offered valuable lessons that transcended party lines. It was a reminder that open-mindedness and a willingness to consider multiple viewpoints are essential for effective and holistic decision-making. On the same day, we also embarked on a visit to the local police station. This visit wasn't just an opportunity to witness the internal systems of law enforcement, but it held a crucial role in shaping our mock campaign strategies. Understanding how public safety functions within Assembly District 49 was pivotal for our campaign planning. Witnessing the temporary stay units for arrested individuals was unnerving, shedding light on the challenges and complexities of the criminal justice system. This experience left a lasting impression and served as a stark reminder of the need for reform and change. It encouraged me to continue exploring alternative methods to policing that prioritize accountability and justice. As we considered the intersection of public safety and social justice, it became increasingly evident that there is room for innovative solutions that better serve our communities.
On Friday, our journey led us to SoCal Gas, where we were immersed in the world of sustainable energy and clean gas. This excursion held a special significance for me, as it rekindled my fascination with energy resources engineering – a passion that had driven me before embarking on my college journey. The intricate dance between human activity and environmental equilibrium became even more apparent as we explored how energy concerns intersect with the well-being of marginalized communities. One captivating highlight was our stroll through Situation City, a sophisticated simulation designed to assess the efficiency of various energy resource materials within an urban context. Walking through the intricately designed streets, I couldn't help but marvel at the complexity of creating a sustainable and harmonious energy ecosystem. The experience underscored the delicate balance required to fulfill our energy needs without compromising the environment or perpetuating social disparities. The visit to SoCal Gas wasn't just an immersive educational experience; it also provided an invaluable opportunity for networking and self-discovery. Engaging in a dynamic speed networking activity, we unearthed the diverse pathways our employees at SoCal Gas were treading to make their mark in the energy sector. The lingering question of SoCal Gas's impact on communities stayed with me. Delving deeper into the logistical benefits it has brought, both before and after implementing specific strategies, remains an avenue of curiosity. Unveiling the nuanced ways in which sustainable energy initiatives have positively influenced local neighborhoods could potentially unveil powerful narratives of positive change.
This transformative week didn't just foster a newfound appreciation for sustainable energy; it also sparked an intriguing connection between our passion for environmental justice and the well-being of the AAPI community. The insights shared by Mayor Cheng and the immersive experience at SoCal Gas demonstrated the power of embracing diverse perspectives and understanding the multifaceted dimensions of sustainability.
The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not reflect the views or positions of CAUSE or the CAUSE network.
Written by Phong Nguyen, Leadership Academy 2023 Intern
The CAUSE Leadership Academy (CLA) for students is a nine-week, paid, internship program that prepares college undergraduates to lead and advocate for the Asian Pacific Islander community on their campuses and beyond.