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Do
It For Your Kids
From SeGye
Oct 1, 2002
By Hong, YongKi
Shin GeunHo, the president of Korean-American Association of Mid-Queens,
was in trouble when his spending on printing was publicized to be
excessive. "I feel sorry for causing so much controversy within
our community," he argued, " however, in time, people
will understand."
Mr. Shin has been playing an important role in the Korean American
voter movement across New York and New Jersey, and has influenced
many Korean political groups either directly or indirectly. After
he was elected president of the Korean-American Association of Mid-Queens,
he followed the lead of the earlier presidents of the association
by emphasizing voter registration. "Many people argue that
it is time for us to join the mainstream in the United States, and
in order to do so, we first need to participate in local politics,"
he said.
He sponsors many local voting centers and other election campaigns
for youth groups, saying that he is "impressed by the rapid
spread of voter registration movements among Korean immigrants.
Many more Korean groups should participate to have stronger voice
in the local community."
Mr. Shin paid $2,000 for the printed materials to promote a joint
voter campaign of Korean associations in New York.
He pointed out, "The first immigrant generation should hand
over a fundamental achievement to the second generation, which can
improve the other ethnic groups impression of Korean people
so that our children can join the mainstream." He added, "The
first generations themselves also have to try to be politically
active by participating in local politics, voting and practicing
civil rights. One small effort of our generation can make a great
difference for our offspring."
Translated from Korean by JooYeon Lee
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