DUMPLINGS

The political engagement of Vietnamese Americans is often complex, which is why this episode dives into how to increase their engagement in progressive and Democratic leaning campaigns. Leaders of the Progressive Vietnamese American Organization (PIVOT) sat down with us to explore the interaction between history, culture, language and generational dynamics that shape Vietnamese Americans' involvement in U.S. politics.

Dr. Janelle Wong

Dr. Janelle Wong is a Professor in Government & Politics and American Studies at University of Maryland (UMD), College Park. She is also the Director of the Asian American Studies Program at UMD. She shares the intensive survey process to collect data that is inclusive of the diverse, multilingual Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) community across the nation.

Delegate Lily Qi

Lily Qi became the first Chinese American immigrant ever elected to the Maryland General Assembly in 2018. She currently represents Maryland’s District 15 in the House of Delegates. Her election gained national press coverage from NPR and The Washington Post for her successful record of energizing Asian American immigrant voters.

Devang Shah

Our inaugural podcast features Devang Shah, Chair of the Maryland Democratic Party AAPI Diversity Leadership Council. During our conversation, we covered several important issues relating to AAPI civic and political life, from increasing political engagement and participation of AAPI communities in swing states to fighting against the Monolithic Myth. Join us for the first conversation of many!