Supervisor Safaie honors Hong Mei Pang for advocacy in immigrant rights and social justice

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors meeting on April 16, 2025, highlighted the contributions of women in the community, particularly focusing on immigrant rights and social justice advocacy. The meeting featured presentations honoring several influential women, including Hong Mei Pang and Carol Tatum, who have made significant impacts in their respective fields.

Hong Mei Pang, recognized for her advocacy work, shared her journey as an immigrant from Singapore. She faced numerous challenges, including undocumented status and language barriers, yet she emerged as a leader in social justice and immigrant rights. Pang co-founded RAISE, a project aimed at supporting undocumented Asian American youth, and has been instrumental in initiatives such as implementing non-citizen voting in San Francisco school board elections. Her efforts have focused on building community and advocating for comprehensive immigration reform, showcasing her commitment to creating a more inclusive society.

Carol Tatum, another honoree, has dedicated over 50 years to community activism in the Bayview Hunters Point area. Tatum's work has included addressing public health issues related to alcohol and tobacco use, as well as advocating for youth employment training programs. Her leadership in various organizations has contributed to significant policy changes, including the ordinance prohibiting smoking in public places in San Francisco.

The meeting underscored the importance of women's voices in the political process and the ongoing struggle for equality and representation. Supervisors expressed hope for increased female representation on the board, currently at three out of eleven members. The discussions emphasized the need for a more reflective democracy that includes diverse perspectives and experiences.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a platform to celebrate the achievements of women like Pang and Tatum, while also calling for continued efforts to address systemic inequalities and promote social justice in San Francisco. The recognition of these leaders highlights the vital role of community activism in shaping public policy and fostering a more equitable society.