Washington, D.C. — OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates leaders released the following statements after the loss of former U.S. Secretary Norman Mineta:
Linda Ng, OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates National President, issued the following statement:
“On behalf of OCA, we send our warmest thoughts to the loved ones and fellow friends of Secretary Mineta. His passing is a huge loss, as he was a beacon for our community. As a longtime friend of OCA, he gave his unwavering support by always showing up for the OCA community like at JACL/OCA Leadership Summits or OCA National Conventions. He led an incredible life, a legacy that history will never and must never forget. His bipartisanship and community building was inimitable and the epitome of what we should all strive to accomplish.”
Thu Nguyen, OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates Executive Director, issued the following statement:
“Secretary Mineta’s strength and passion, even up until his last few months, has inspired and empowered generations of advocates in pursuing AANHPI representation in public service, equity, and justice. He offered both optimism and firm criticism, and a warm personable attitude where he treated young advocates with as much respect as he himself was due. He was always, always incredibly passionate, kind, and generous with his time. Even just about 7 months ago, he joined our Zoom event on 9/11 because he felt it important to make sure our community remembered and learned our history by sharing his experience and wisdom. As we celebrate AA/NHPI Heritage Month this May, we also celebrate the legacy of Secretary Norman Mineta. ”
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