About

Mayor Ed Lee
Grace Meng
About

Bridging Communities

Established in 1992 as the Asian Pacific Democratic Club, we proudly hold the title of the longest-serving Asian-Pacific Islander (API) democratic club west of the Mississippi. In 2018, we renamed ourselves the Edwin M. Lee Asian Pacific Democratic Club to honor the enduring legacy of San Francisco Mayor Edwin M. Lee.

Mayor Ed Lee, who unexpectedly passed away at the age of 65, dedicated his life to public service, starting as a tenants’ rights lawyer and later serving as the 43rd mayor of San Francisco. To address housing affordability, jobs and the economy, he was known for his civility and unique ability to bring people to the table to implement policies.

As a club officially chartered by the San Francisco Democratic Party, we represent the vibrant diversity of the city’s local Democratic party. Our mission is to engage Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Americans, encourage their active participation in the Democratic Party, and support strong API leaders, echoing Mayor Lee’s commitment to community and service.

Known as Ed Lee Dems, our activities include voter registration, issue advocacy, hosting candidate forums, social events, and endorsing candidates and ballot measures. We are proud to carry forward Mayor Lee’s spirit of compassion, decency, and kindness.

Join us in shaping a more inclusive and empowered political landscape, embodying the values that defined Mayor Ed Lee’s impactful work and commitment to the people of San Francisco.

December 2025
Who We Are

2026 Board of Directors

  • Thomas Li, President
  • Mary Jung, Vice President
  • Jay Cheng, Treasurer
  • Michael Chen, Secretary
  • Selina Sun, Immediate Past President

  • Rob Aiavao, Board Member
  • Jason Chan, Board Member
  • Kenneth Chen, Board Member
  • Kanishka Karunaratne Cheng, Board Member
  • Jordan DeAngelo, Board Member
  • Mick Del Rosario, Board Member
  • Chasel Lee, Board Member
  • Francis Tsang, Board Member
  • Jade Tu, Board Member
  • Nelson Zhao, Board Member
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What We Do

Organize

Building Power Through Community Action

We believe change happens when neighbors come together. You’ll find us registering voters at community festivals, knocking on doors in every neighborhood, and hosting events that bring people together like our annual Lunar New Year celebration. We partner with other Democratic clubs across the city because we know we’re stronger when we work side by side. We’re building a community where Asian American and Pacific Islander voices are heard and respected.

Inspire

Developing the Next Generation of Leaders

We’re here to help people discover their power. Through campaign trainings and hands-on organizing, we teach folks how to organize, manage a winning campaign, or simply become more effective advocates in their own neighborhoods. We love seeing our members go on to work in city hall or lead their own community organizations. Everyone starts somewhere, and we’re here to help you take that first step.

Empower

Making Democracy Work for Everyone

Voting is just the beginning. We host forums where you can meet candidates face to face and ask the questions that matter to you. We break down complicated ballot measures into plain language and make endorsements you can trust. When important decisions are being made at City Hall, we show up to make sure our community’s voice is in the room. We believe democracy works best when everyone participates, and we’re here to make that easier for you.

3/14 – Asian American Community Congressional Candidates Forum. - Photo by Thomas Li
3/14 – Asian American Community Congressional Candidates Forum. - Photo by Thomas Li
This is Why We Organize

Fight for Change that Matters

  • Equal Rights: Civil Rights, Women’s Rights, LGBT Rights
  • Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Representation
  • Local Public Schools, Transportation, and Parks
  • Safe Neighborhoods
  • More Affordable Housing
  • Access to Quality, Affordable Health Care
  • Expanding Economic Opportunities
Future is Female
Member Safety

Conduct Policies

The Edwin M. Lee Asian Pacific Democratic Club is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all our members and the community we serve. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of conduct and are committed to transparency and accountability. Below, you will find our official policies regarding member safety, anti-retaliation, and the resources available for reporting misconduct.

Anti-Retaliation Statement

Edwin M. Lee Asian Pacific Democratic Club is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all members and participants. We encourage the reporting of any instances of sexual harassment or misconduct.

Retaliation against any individual for reporting misconduct in good faith, or for participating in an investigation into alleged misconduct, is strictly prohibited. Any member found to have engaged in retaliatory behavior will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the Club and notification to the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee (SFDCCC).

Reporting & Resources

How to Report Misconduct

If you have experienced or witnessed misconduct, you may report it through the following channels:

Survivor Support & Resources

If you need support or external assistance, please refer to this list of
Third-Party Survivor Resources

Alcohol and Conduct Policy

While the Edwin M. Lee Asian Pacific Democratic Club (EDLC) may host social events where alcohol is served, we prioritize the safety of our members above all else. In alignment with San Francisco Democratic Party policies, intoxication is not an excuse for violating the Code of Conduct. All members and guests are held to the same standard of behavior regardless of impairment.

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