Mike Eng
Championing Inclusion& Navigating Public Service
Episode 198
Mike Eng is a distinguished public servant whose career spans decades of advocacy, legal expertise, and leadership across various sectors. His work has profoundly impacted his community and the state of California, where he has championed causes ranging from civil rights to education, water access, and housing.
Mike began his public service career as a City Commissioner, where he stood up against censorship when the city dissolved the library board of trustees, of which he was president, over the inclusion of foreign language books. His fight for library independence led to his involvement in a nationally recognized court case that protected the autonomy of libraries across the U.S. He also spearheaded a successful local fundraising campaign that qualified the city for a state grant, resulting in an $18 million library expansion.
A volunteer lawyer, Mike is known for creating the Emmy-winning “How to Become a U.S. Citizen” video, which has helped countless immigrants navigate the citizenship process. His work as a City Mayor further showcased his commitment to unity, notably through the creation of the Harmony Essay Contest, which brought together long-term residents and new immigrants.
Mike’s influence as a State Assemblyman gained him international recognition for authoring California’s “Human Right to Water” legislation, aimed at providing clean drinking water to disadvantaged communities. He also authored the “Homeowner’s Bill of Rights,” which protected middle-class families from predatory banking practices during the housing crisis.
A staunch advocate for immigrant rights, Mike established California’s “Day of Inclusion,” which recognized the end of the Chinese Exclusion Act and honored the contributions of immigrants and minorities. As a Community College Trustee, he fought for accessible education by helping thousands of students gain healthcare under the Affordable Care Act and addressing homelessness among students by advocating for affordable on-campus housing.
In 2019, Mike was appointed to the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board, where he helps ensure that laws related to unemployment, disability, taxes, and workplace fairness are enforced justly. A passionate public speaker, he frequently lectures on U.S. and California laws, especially those that have historically legitimized racial discrimination in education, immigration, and legal systems.
A graduate of UCLA Law School, Mike is the son of a World War II veteran, the brother of a Pastor, and the husband of a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. His dedication to justice, equality, and public service has left a lasting legacy in both his local community and the state of California.
Mike Eng Takeaways
Understanding the Importance of Community
Mike Ng emphasizes the significance of community engagement and unity, especially in diverse areas like Monterey Park. He recounts how he helped foster harmony through initiatives such as the community essay contest, which showcased the shared values of residents, regardless of their backgrounds. This initiative helped bridge divides and prompted a shift in the community’s narrative from discord to collaboration. Ng believes that such efforts are essential for creating a more inclusive and understanding society.
The Role of Libraries in Social Change
Ng discusses the critical role of libraries as community hubs that offer more than just books—they provide a space for dialogue, cultural exchange, and empowerment. He shares his experience as a library board member, where he fought against attempts to dissolve the board in response to the inclusion of foreign language books. This battle underscored the library’s position as a symbol of inclusivity and access to knowledge, reflecting the diverse identities within Monterey Park.
Embracing Challenges as Opportunities
Throughout his career, Ng has faced numerous challenges, from bullying in his youth to navigating political opposition. He suggests that these hardships have equipped him with empathy and resilience, which are crucial for effective leadership. By sharing his personal journey, he highlights the importance of leveraging one’s experiences of failure and adversity as tools for growth and inspiration.
The Power of Empathy in Leadership
Ng stresses that true leadership stems from empathy, which allows individuals to connect deeply with the struggles of others. He articulates that his own experiences of being bullied and feeling out of place fostered a profound understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities. This empathy drives him to advocate for inclusive policies, ensuring that all voices are heard and represented in decision-making processes.
The Impact of Education on Personal Growth
Ng reflects on how education shaped his identity and career path, illustrating the transformative power of knowledge. His journey from struggling in school to becoming a lawyer and public servant underscores the importance of educational institutions in providing opportunities for all. He advocates for accessible education as a means to uplift individuals and communities, highlighting East Los Angeles College as a key player in this mission.
Navigating Cultural Differences
Ng shares insights into the cultural dynamics of Monterey Park, a city that has undergone significant demographic changes. He acknowledges the discomfort that can accompany such shifts but emphasizes that embracing diversity can lead to richer community experiences. His work is driven by a commitment to fostering understanding and collaboration among different cultural groups in the area.
A Vision for a Unified Future
Ultimately, Ng envisions a future where communities like Monterey Park thrive through unity and mutual respect. He believes that the younger generation holds the key to this vision, as demonstrated by the powerful messages of harmony expressed in the essays from local children. By investing in the future leaders of the community, he hopes to cultivate an environment where diversity is celebrated and all residents feel a sense of belonging.
Mike Eng Quotes
“We probably have more that unite us than divide us.”
“The hatred that seemed to be pervading a city was not a hatred that children were born with.”
“Empathy is something that you went through yourself.”
“I think the ability to empathize is the greatest gift that I have.”
“Every point where I’ve had to make a decision, I’ve tended to choose the decision that put me at more risk.”
“The library is a microcosm of the life of a city.”
“Writing was my salvation.”
“I think laughter was my salvation.”
“The difference between icon and I can’t is I can.”
Show Notes
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Music Credits
Intro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Stinger
Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library
Outro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Mike Eng
Bruggemeyer Library
The library is seen as the heart of Monterey Park, where residents of all backgrounds come together. It symbolizes the importance of education and community engagement, serving as a microcosm of the city’s diverse life and history.
Cascades Park
This unique waterfall and monument represents the lifeblood of Monterey Park. Created by a Greek immigrant, it stands as a reminder of the city’s heritage and the importance of water and parks in nurturing community growth and identity.
East LA College
As a vital educational institution, East LA College embodies accessibility and empowerment. It serves as a starting point for many students, fostering activism and community involvement while providing a pathway to higher education for diverse populations.
