On April 16th, Wendy Huang, a Chinese-American woman who has been living in Union City for nearly 26 years, announced her decision to run for City Council in the first district of Union City. She expressed her motivation for running, citing the importance of having choices, securing a better future for children, and ensuring the safety of the city.
Having immigrated to the United States 40 years ago to escape the authoritarian rule of the Chinese Communist Party, Wendy Huang has witnessed various challenges faced by her community in Union City. She raised concerns about the deteriorating public safety due to the increase in crime rates, homelessness, substance abuse among youth, as well as the rising cost of living driven by escalating taxes and inflation.
Huang emphasized the need for residents to have a voice in local governance, which she believes has been stifled by the current administration in Union City. She criticized the government for subjecting citizens to excessive taxation, regulations, inflation, and instilling fear among the population, leading to a sense of enslavement in their own community.
At a private dinner event in San Leandro, Huang spoke passionately about the importance of respecting individual choices and advocating for freedom of choice. She highlighted the necessity for residents to speak up and participate in decision-making processes to address ongoing issues facing the city.
In addition to her involvement in local politics, Wendy Huang has been actively engaged in advocating for changes in educational policies. She played a role in challenging mandatory vaccination requirements in Alameda County community colleges, resulting in the reversal of indoor mask mandates at certain institutions.
Her decision to run for City Council was not solely motivated by concerns over crime rates or taxation, but by a desire to secure a better future for the next generation. Reflecting on her own immigrant experience and the sacrifices her parents made to provide her with a life of freedom in the U.S., she expressed her aspiration for future generations to continue enjoying the same liberties.
During the private dinner event in San Leandro, eight candidates from Alameda County were present, running for positions on local school boards, city councils, water districts, entertainment, and parks boards. The gathering highlighted the diversity of voices and visions aiming to contribute to the betterment of the community.