CMAQ leaders advocate for Joanne Lee as inaugural executive director during ethics commission hearing

The San Francisco Ethics Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to deliberate on a waiver request for Joanne Lee, the proposed inaugural Executive Director of the Chinatown Media and Arts Collaborative (CMAC). The meeting featured a series of public comments from community leaders and stakeholders advocating for Lee's appointment, emphasizing the critical role she would play in revitalizing Chinatown and supporting its cultural heritage.

Mabel Tang, interim executive director of CMAC, opened the discussion by highlighting the organization's mission to reshape the narrative surrounding Asian Americans and immigrants. She underscored the significance of appointing Lee, stating that her leadership would be vital in addressing the challenges faced by the Chinatown community, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising anti-Asian sentiment.

Vincent Pan, co-executive director of Chinese for Affirmative Action, echoed these sentiments, detailing the economic and social struggles Chinatown has endured, including mass layoffs and a decline in tourism. He noted that CMAC has secured over $25 million for a new cultural facility, "Edge on the Square," which aims to anchor creative spaces in the area. Pan argued that denying Lee the waiver would impose irreparable harm on both her and the community.

Several speakers, including Kimberly Stryker from the San Francisco Arts Commission and Malcolm Young from the Chinatown Community Development Center, praised Lee's integrity and qualifications. They emphasized that her unique skill set—combining knowledge of real estate, arts, and community development—makes her the ideal candidate for this unprecedented position.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of Lee's appointment for the arts community in San Francisco. Speakers highlighted the importance of representation and leadership from individuals of color in shaping the future of the arts sector, particularly in a city known for its diverse cultural landscape.

As the meeting progressed, the consensus among speakers was clear: granting the waiver to Joanne Lee is not only essential for her career but also crucial for the revitalization of Chinatown and the broader San Francisco community. The commission is expected to consider these perspectives carefully as they move toward a decision on the waiver request.