FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2025
Contact: Denise Aquino
Communications Associate
Phone: (213) 269-4639
Email: denise@causeusa.org
Los Angeles, CA – The Center for Asian Americans United for Self-Empowerment (CAUSE) proudly celebrates the appointments of Michael Yap and Andrea Mac to the Los Angeles City Charter Reform Commission. Their appointments follow advocacy from CAUSE and community partners to ensure that Asian American voices are represented in shaping the future of Los Angeles governance.
The Charter Reform Commission will play a critical role in determining how Los Angeles is governed for generations to come. Its work will shape the structure, accountability, and effectiveness of city government—making inclusive representation on this body essential.
“This is about more than representation; it’s about participation,” said Nancy Yap, Executive Director of CAUSE. “Michael and Andrea bring years of civic leadership and dedication to building relationships between government and our communities. Their appointments reflect CAUSE’s commitment to leadership that brings community voices forward to help shape the future of Los Angeles.”
Michael Yap brings more than 30 years of civic, professional, and philanthropic leadership to the Commission. A long term supporter of CAUSE and numerous Asian and Pacific Islander community groups throughout Los Angeles, he is a trusted leader who is currently Chair of the Advisory Council at LAist (Southern California Public Radio). A seasoned legal executive with expertise in governance, ethics, and regulatory oversight, Michael has consistently combined business leadership with a deep commitment to uplifting marginalized voices across the city.
Born and raised in Los Angeles’ Chinatown, Andrea Mac is a graduate of the 2023 CAUSE Leadership Academy and is currently a Programs Coordinator at CAUSE. Andrea has distinguished herself as a rising voice in community spaces and advocate for including youth at decision making tables. She is an instrumental part of CAUSE’s voter outreach and education initiatives and models civic leadership for CAUSE’s youth program as a facilitator. Her appointment represents the next generation of leadership rooted in and dedicated to Los Angeles’ future.
“We are proud to see Michael Yap and Andrea Mac serving on this historic commission,” said Charlie Woo, CAUSE Board Chair. “Both have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to uplifting our communities here in Los Angeles. With their leadership, we can be confident that Asian American voices will be part of shaping the foundation of Los Angeles’ future at this pivotal moment for reform.”
CAUSE also proudly recognizes Angelina Finau, a CAUSE alumna and civic leader, who was selected as a finalist for the Charter Reform Commission. While not appointed, Angelina’s leadership and ongoing civic engagement reflect the growing strength of Pacific Islander representation in Los Angeles. CAUSE remains committed to supporting her leadership journey.
Michael Yap
Andrea Mac (Photo Credit: Farrah Su)
For more information about the Los Angeles City Charter Reform Commission, visit:
reformlacharter.lacity.gov/
About CAUSE:
The Center for Asian Americans United for Self-Empowerment (CAUSE) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to advancing the civic and political empowerment of Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Since 1993, CAUSE has provided leadership development programs, civic education initiatives, and policy advocacy to build a stronger, more inclusive democracy. Learn more at www.causeusa.org.
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