Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus Statement on Passing of Mayor Ed Lee
San Francisco, CA – December 12, 2017 – We were deeply distraught to hear that San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee passed away early this morning.
Ed Lee worked for Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus between 1976 and 1989, starting as a law clerk and moving his way up to become managing attorney. As our managing attorney, Ed was a passionate advocate for civil rights. His commitment to affordable housing and workers’ rights in the Bay Area continued after he left Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus, and he continued to champion the needs of low-income and vulnerable Asian Americans in his various roles in city government.
Ed combined his love of golf, fun, and social justice by starting the Caucus Classic, a golf tournament to raise funds for our organization. When Ed became Mayor, he continued the tradition by starting the Mayor’s Cup, a benefit for local non-profits. Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus was fortunate to be a beneficiary of the Mayor’s Cup since its inception.
Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus’ Executive Director, Aarti Kohli, said:
“We are all shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news. We are proud to call Ed an alumnus. Perhaps the greatest testament of his character lies in those instances when Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus disagreed with City policy. Despite the disagreement, the Mayor’s support of ALC’s mission was unwavering. He will be missed, not only by his former colleagues, but all of us who had a chance to work with him as Mayor. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Ed’s family at this difficult time.”
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Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Asian Law Caucus was founded in 1972 as the nation’s first legal and civil rights Asian American organization. Recognizing that social, economic, political, and racial inequalities continue to exist in the United States, we are committed to the pursuit of equality and justice for all sectors of our society, with a special focus directed towards addressing the needs of low-income, immigrant, and underserved Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
Media Contact: Christina So, (415) 848-7728, christinaso@advancingjustice-alc.org