With her Maryland roots, trailblazer Ms. Bel Leong Hong has made her mark through political organizing and fundraising at the national level. As chair of the Democratic National Committee’s Asian American & Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Caucus, she has spearheaded a movement of AAPI political engagement for more than two decades. From ensuring AAPI representation at all levels of government to mobilizing AAPI donors for Democratic candidates up and down the ballot, Bel emphasizes opening doors for future Asian Americans in politics. Stream this episode to hear how Bel has shattered barriers, championed diversity, and elevated the visibility of AAPIs nationwide.
About Our Guest:
Ms. Bel Leong Hong is an advocate, changemaker and trailblazer. Bel’s foray into politics began when she first stumped for John Kerry for President. She eventually made her way up the ranks in Democratic politics, becoming the Chair of the Democratic National Committee’s Asian American & Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Caucus. As chair, Bel built a caucus organization that shepherded in a new era of AAPI political growth and engagement for more than two decades. Bel also co-founded the national political action committee, AAPI Victory Fund. She is a powerhouse when it comes to campaigning and fundraising for Presidential, Senatorial, Congressional, and Legislative candidates on the Democratic ticket - especially in Maryland. Outside of politics, she is the CEO and President of Knowledge Advantage, Inc. Before entering politics, she had an astounding career as a federal government public servant, retiring as the highest ranking Asian American civilian in the U.S. Department of Defense.
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