-Asia-Pacific Affirmative Budget- 160 million passed by Luo Dalun during the epidemic period

Evan Low, the Assemblymember representing California’s 26th district, is leading the charge in crafting legislation that supports Asian and Pacific Islander communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he played a pivotal role in advocating for the groundbreaking “API Equity Budget,” which allocated $166.5 million—the largest investment in California aimed at tackling anti-Asian hate and promoting equity.

On Lunar New Year’s Eve, the World Journal had the chance to sit down with Low, who is currently campaigning for California’s 16th Congressional District. A significant highlight of his career is the drafting of Assembly Bill 2596, which officially recognized Lunar New Year as a state holiday in California. This achievement holds special meaning for him as a fourth-generation Chinese American.

Low reflected on his identity, sharing that despite being a fourth-generation Californian who often speaks Spanish more fluently than Chinese, he frequently faces questions that make him feel like an outsider. “People often ask me, ‘Where are you from?’ When I reply, ‘San Jose,’ they follow up with, ‘No, where are you really from?’ I tell them, ‘My mom was born in Oakland, and my dad was born in Sacramento,’” he recounted.

He underscored that this experience resonates deeply within the Asian community, highlighting the need for representation in American politics. “As Asian Americans, we need to raise our voices,” he asserted, stressing the urgency to put an end to all forms of racial discrimination.

Having been aware of his Chinese heritage since childhood, Low grew up in Silicon Valley, which boasts five Chinatowns. He expressed pride in the Asian community’s contributions to the region while emphasizing the importance of preserving that rich history.

He also acknowledged the current international political landscape, pointing out how it has intensified challenges for the Asian community. He referenced former President Trump’s rhetoric, which he believes has fueled anti-Asian sentiment, and noted the harmful stereotypes questioning the loyalty of Chinese Americans. “This is a stark reality we must confront,” he remarked.

Discussing historical injustices, Low recalled the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and the Alien Land Law of 1912, cautioning that history has a tendency to repeat itself. He called on communities to organize for electoral participation and resist discrimination against any ethnic group, particularly Chinese Americans.

On the topic of his efforts to designate May 10 as “California Railway Workers’ Day,” Low emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of Chinese immigrants. “Chinese immigrants have played a significant role in shaping America and California, and it’s crucial to acknowledge that they are an integral part of this nation,” he stated.

He also expressed pride in his collaboration with Governor Newsom and other state legislators to promote the “Hollywood Diversity Incentive” bill, which provides tax rebates to encourage diverse storytelling in film. He pointed to the Oscar-winning film “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” starring Asian actress Michelle Yeoh, as a prime example of the bill’s positive impact. “This legislation helps Asian artists showcase their talents,” he remarked.

Low highlighted his personal connection to the Asian film industry, mentioning his friendship with “Crazy Rich Asians” director Jon M. Chu and their joint efforts on a project aimed at preserving Chinese American history in Santa Clara Valley.

When discussing acupuncture’s role in healthcare, Low pointed out California’s large number of licensed acupuncturists, emphasizing that acupuncture is not solely an Eastern practice but a vital asset to community health, particularly in addressing the opioid crisis. He noted that awareness of acupuncture’s benefits is expanding among various ethnic groups, not just within the Asian community.

In conclusion, Low cautioned against the “model minority” stereotype, which can hinder the Asian community’s access to essential resources. He observed that while Asian Americans are often viewed as high achievers, this narrative overlooks significant health disparities, such as higher rates of liver diseases within the community. “If we settle for the stereotype, we will struggle to secure the resources needed to address these critical issues,” he warned.