Asian Americans are becoming more politically active in their communities. They used to try to keep out of the spotlight but are discovering their voices should be heard. - - Donna Poisl
Once marginalized, Asian Americans participate in civic life in Palo Alto in increasing numbers
by Sue Dremann, Palo Alto Weekly Staff
Grace Mah thought long and hard about her decision to apply for a seat on the Santa Clara County Board of Education in 2007. She had fought a lengthy battle to start a Mandarin Immersion language program in the Palo Alto school district, even raising $60,000 for district staff to conduct a study.
At times, the animosity of a few of her opponents took on decidedly racial overtones. One anonymous phone call stands out in her mind.
"They told me, 'Why don't you just go back to China?'" said Mah, who is of Chinese heritage but American born.
But she said she had developed expertise and a passion for education and felt undaunted by the controversy.
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