Assistant Professor
Larry Tung
- Jay and Patty Baker School of Business and Technology
- Advertising and Marketing Communications
Invisible No More
East Asian American Women in NYC Politics
Asian Americans are no longer just an emerging force in New York City politics –they are making sweeping strides at all levels of government. The surge in Asian American representation is undeniable, with their political strength and influence on full display, particularly in Brooklyn’s newly designated Asian opportunity district. Created in 2023 through the once-a-decade redistricting process, this district reflects the explosive growth and impact of the Asian American community.
City Councilmembers Linda Lee, Sandra Ung, Susan Zhuang, and State Senator John Liu and former State Senator Iwen Chu share their journeys into public service – how they broke barriers, took seats at the table, and now champion the voices of their communities.
How did you first come up with the idea for this work?
When I moved to NYC 25 years ago, I was surprised by the fact that there was not a single elected official who is Asian American. As a reporter who covered primarily immigrant communities, I started following the political scene in New York.
What was your research process like?
I interviewed Asian American elected officials, historians, and community organizers.
How long did you work on this before it was published?
On and off for about 2 years.
Does this work relate to your role at FIT? If so, how?
Yes, I teach video production so I get to share my experience with my students.
What was your biggest challenge? What was most rewarding?
The biggest challenge was that not every elected official responded to our request and some of them did not give us a lot of time with them.
Have you published any other books or have any upcoming publications?
Yes, I have produced more than a dozen documentary shorts. I am working on a new short on Hong Kong’s marriage equality movement.
- Professor at FIT since Fall 2024
- Film released in November 2025