"New York Daily News" favorably profiles Queens Councilman John Liu

Last month, the "New York Daily News" ran an editorial lauding Queens Councilman John Liu, praising his willingness to fight the racist radio talk that's plagued the city. An excellent reminder of why it's critical to elect progressive Asian American candidates -- the good ones will fight key battles that other politicians may ignore. Here's an excerpt:

It was only a matter of time, and political fairness, before Asians, who make up 11% of the city's population, began to claim a seat at the table of power, alongside our black, Latino, Irish, Jewish and Italian communities. That long-overdue time has come, and we can thank Queens Councilman John Liu for it.

Liu (D-Flushing) has been on a tear lately, using old-fashioned ethnic politics as a springboard to influence citywide issues. Liu's rise is good for the city, reflecting the growing clout of New York's Asian population.

Last week - in between organizing hearings and press conferences on keeping cars out of city parks and getting experimental new traffic signals installed - the Taiwan-born councilman held high-profile press conferences that led to the firing of Troi Torain, aka DJ Star, from Power 105.1 radio station and his subsequent arrest.

Liu served the charges up rough, his jaw set with rage as he played a recording of Torain referring to a part-Asian woman as a "lo mein eater" and other, more offensive slurs.

...

As more Asian candidates win power, the kind of bigoted "humor" displayed by Hot 97 and Power 105.1 will become history. It will be one more thing to thank Liu for.