Lo van Pham, the first Asian American NFL official, spoke at the Asian American and Pacific Islander Sports and Culture Symposium about his journey to the NFL and his hope to inspire other Asian kids to pursue their passions in sports. Van Pham's father's decision to bring his family to the US as refugees instilled in him the values of dedication and hard work, which he credits for his success. Despite facing challenges and doubters along the way, van Pham rose through the ranks of officiating to reach the NFL and hopes to use his position to give hope to other Asian kids.
The terms Asian American, AAPI, and other acronyms have been used to describe a diverse population of over 24 million people with roots in East Asia, Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Hawaii, Samoa, Guam, Fiji, Tonga, Marshall Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and other Pacific islands. While these terms have been widely used, some people within these communities do not fully identify with them. Some South Asians and Southeast Asians argue that Asian American is seen as synonymous with East Asian, while many Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders feel that their distinct histories and challenges are erased under the AAPI umbrella. Despite the limitations of these labels, they provide a means for communities to access resources and unite against oppression.
Julie Su, President Biden's nominee for Secretary of Labor, would be the first AAPI Cabinet secretary if confirmed. She previously served in several top spots in California state government, including as labor secretary under Gov. Gavin Newsom. Su co-founded Sweatshop Watch, an organization that worked to improve working conditions for garment workers in the United States. However, Su is facing scrutiny from Senate Republicans on her leadership of California's Labor Department and will have to answer for moves made by DOL during Walsh's tenure.
