Chinese-American board presence finally

December 3, 9:25 AMSF Politics ExaminerArthur Bruzzone

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Finally, with the declared victory of David Chiu in supervisorial District Three, the Chinese-American community finally has a appropriate representation on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

Professor Richard DeLeon, in his Left Coast City written in 1992, noted the success of Chinese-American candidates in achieving seats on the Community College Board.  But DeLeon questioned whether voter mobilization and organization would lead to proportionate representation on the city's prime governing body.

Now, David Chiu and Eric Mar (District One) will join and Carmen Chu (District Four) on the Board of Supervisors.

Chiu's victory has added significance.  His district includes the historical roots of the Chinese Community -- Chinatown. It completes a cycle, and highlights the effectiveness of the emerging political infrastructure in San Francisco.

Governance is not campaigning.  And like Barack Obama all three Chinese-American supervisors are young, bright,  and articulate.  And like the President-elect, they will face major urban and fiscal challenges.  But for today, the city should be proud that the Chinese-American community has earned their place as a significant political force in San Francisco.