To celebrate the inauguration of U.S. President Barack Obama, Ningin asked members of the Asian American political community to tell us what this historic event means to each of them. New York City Councilman John Liu returned from the Inauguration Ceremony and was kind enough to talk to Maimounah Masudi and David Hou from Ningin.

Councilman Liu moved to the United States from Taiwan at the age of five. His first name was changed from Chun to John, in honor of John F. Kennedy. In keeping with the Kennedy inspiration, his brothers became Robert and Edward. His father became Joseph. Councilman Liu was elected in 2001. He currently serves on the New York City Council, representing District 20 consisting of northeast Queens (Flushing, Queensboro Hill, Mitchell Linden, Murray Hill, Holly, Kissena Park, Harding Heights, Auburndale, part of Whitestone). Councilman Liu was re-elected in 2003 and in 2005. He is the first and only Asian American to be elected in New York City. (Yes, really! Go John!)

Mai: When and why did you decide on a political career?
Becoming an elected official was a natural extension of my community activism as a student and civic leader. As an executive officer of the Student Association of Binghamton University, I helped bring together the various campus groups to more effectively fight for a common agenda. Similarly, as the President of the North Flushing Civic Association and Vice President of the Queens Civic Congress, I worked hard to ensure that the needs of our community were addressed, regardless of race or ethnicity. One of the catalysts for my decision were the unfortunate remarks of our former Councilwoman Julia Harrison, who told a New York Times reporter in March 1996 that her Asian constituents were “criminal smugglers, rude merchants and illegal aliens” who had come to “colonize” Flushing. I stepped up to the plate because I strongly believe it is important for our elected officials to represent a less divisive and more inclusive vision for our city and nation.

Mai: How did you become a Councilman of New York City and what do the duties of a councilman entail?
There are 51 Council Members, each representing districts with over 150,000 residents, who advocate on issues of concern to the residents and businesses in their districts. Any citizen can become an elected Member of the New York City Council by gathering signatures on a ballot petition and obtaining the necessary votes to win in the September primary and November general elections. Once elected, a Council Member has the power to introduce legislation, negotiate with the Mayor on the City’s annual budget, oversee agency operations and make land use decisions that affect over eight million residents.

Mai: New York City has a significant Asian population, but there aren’t many Asian Americans in local official positions. What obstacles have you faced in your political career?
There are many obstacles when it comes to political participation for people of color, including Asian Americans. One barrier is the perception—even within our community—that only certain types of people can provide political leadership in our country. With the historic election of President Barack Obama, this attitude is finally giving way to a more hopeful vision where every child in America is expected to grow to their full potential—and even become President of the United States.

David: You had the honor of attending the Inauguration. Now that you’ve returned from D.C., can you share with us a little of your experience at such a historical event?
I feel privileged to have been so close to the moment. Even with a million to two million people, as the new president spoke you could hear a pin drop. The expectations on President Obama are tremendous, and although no one could ever fully meet those expectations, a rising tide most certainly lifts all ships.

David: I attended the Inauguration Watch Celebration at the Flushing Town Hall. I learned Flushing residents are a very diverse group of ethnicities. Everyone together under the same roof was an inspiring act of community spirit. What can people do in their own local communities with their renewed civic spirit?
Flushing is a microcosm of where America is going. If we stand together as one people, we can together fulfill so many promises for people now and for future generations to come.

David: President Obama has made it clear that America has many challenges ahead of it. What challenges do you see for the Asian American community over the next four years?
Asian-Americans need to more effectively coordinate our growing political influence—whether it is through the ballot box or through role models in the media, business, and the arts—to ensure that the needs of our community are adequately prioritized and addressed by our society and government institutions. The 2010 Census and redistricting process are one of many opportunities in the next four years where we can actively participate and shape the future of our country.

Mai: What activities are you involved with outside of politics?
Raising my son Joey with my wife Jenny.

Mia: What will be the next step that you plan to take in your political career?
I am currently running for New York City Public Advocate, a citywide office that will provide me with an even greater opportunity to hold our government more accountable and push for the reforms we so desperately need if New York City is to remain the Capital of the World.

You can find out more about Councilman John Liu at his website: www.liunewyork.com