In the heart of San Francisco’s Chinatown, something extraordinary happened this past December. Three influential Asian American political clubs – traditionally divided by ideological lines – gathered under one roof for a groundbreaking holiday celebration.

The event, hosted by the Chinese American Democratic Club, Ed Lee Democratic Club, and Rose Pak Asian American Club, symbolized a rare moment of unity in a community often perceived as politically fractured. Despite sharp differences in political approaches, from progressive social service advocacy to more moderate crime reduction strategies, the clubs demonstrated a commitment to mutual understanding.

City Supervisor Connie Chan, who is running for Nancy Pelosi’s congressional seat, emphasized the significance of this gathering. “We are not a monolithic community,” she declared, highlighting the complex political landscape of Asian Americans in San Francisco.

The demographic reality underscores the importance of this event. Asians comprise approximately one-third of San Francisco’s population, yet their political representation has been declining. A decade ago, half of the city’s supervisors were Asian; today, that number has significantly dropped.

Josephine Zhao, president of the Chinese American Democratic Club, acknowledged the groups’ fundamental differences. “We have different endorsements, different approaches,” she explained. “But we also share crucial concerns, particularly around public safety”.

Selina Sun, president of the Ed Lee Democratic Club, viewed the gathering as a “call for unity,” providing a rare opportunity for community members to connect beyond political battlelines. Alvin Lee from the Rose Pak Asian American Club echoed this sentiment, describing the event as a chance to “humanize each other”.

With the June 2026 local election approaching, the gathering also served as a strategic networking platform. Candidates for District 4 supervisor were present, signaling the ongoing importance of Asian American political engagement.

As San Francisco continues to evolve, this holiday party represents more than just a social event. It’s a powerful statement about community resilience, mutual respect, and the potential for political collaboration across ideological divides.