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.

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

Email us

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.