Hằng Kim Lợi
What does it mean to be Asian American?
To be part of an amazing heritage, a group of people with deep sense of family, values, and ethics that have built and enriched this country from its earliest history.
I am proud of my hybrid Asian/Vietnamese American heritage. Growing up as a child immigrant (refugee) and minority gave me unique perspectives and skills.
I'd like to think the inherent constancy of life outside of my comfort zone made me more resourceful and persistent, unafraid to push the boundaries of status quo, and driven to enact change.
Ethnic background: Vietnamese (immigrant)
Age: over 50
Current city & state: St. Paul, Minnesota
What motivates you to do what you do everyday? Hope that we can do better if we work together and not give up. For the sake of all of us, for my daughters, for future generations.
What do you worry about? The current state of the US, where bigotry seems to drive the thinking of so many, as evident in the last two presidential elections. I am concerned for the erosion of civility, freedom, and human rights of those who are under-represented in power in this society.
What can’t you live without? Good food, like Bun Bo Hue.
What brings you joy? Physical health, sunset reflections on water, good cup of morning coffee, connection with people.
What is your wish for the United States? To be the democracy where equality, liberty, and justice exist for EVERY person. To be a land where everyone has healthful life through clean air, water, and food.
What role do you play in making that wish come true? I am an engaged advocate for gender equity, STEM/STEAM education, and diversity and equity. I speak out and share ideas to represent, and to diversify the narratives. I hope to inspire others to be bold too. There are simply too few faces and voices like mine.
“I speak out and share ideas to represent, and to diversify the narratives. I hope to inspire others to be bold too. There are simply too few faces and voices like mine.”
— Hằng Kim Lợi, 2023