The San Francisco Elections Commission, responsible for overseeing the city’s Department of Elections, recently got a new member who is also a noncitizen immigrant! Kelly Wong, an immigrant from Hong Kong, was the first noncitizen to be appointed to such a role. She aims to address the challenges faced by immigrants in fully exercising their voting rights, especially those who have limited proficiency in English.
Kelly Wong’s Appointment
Kelly Wong has become the first noncitizen appointed to the San Francisco Elections Commission. Her swearing-in ceremony, conducted by Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, drew a crowd of supporters at San Francisco City Hall, celebrating the occasion and its implications.
Overcoming Challenges
Reflecting on her journey, Wong talked about the struggles she has encountered as an immigrant. She emphasized the importance of perseverance and encouraged others to chase their dreams!
Unanimous Support
The Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to appoint Wong to the San Francisco Elections Commission. Each member of the seven-person commission is appointed by city officials. Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin said, “I’m very impressed by her commitment to enfranchising people who rarely vote, to educating people about the voting process, and to bring in noncitizens and get them the tools they need as they become citizens.”