Pelosi Remarks In Memory Of Harold Yee

March 18, 2004

"Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay final tribute to civil rights leader and community activist Harold Yee, who passed away on February 5th in San Francisco. Harold was an extraordinary leader and visionary who empowered San Francisco's Asian American community to dramatically expand and solidify its economic and political strength.

"Born in China in 1932, Harold immigrated to the United States in 1939 where he grew up in East Los Angeles. He received his bachelor's degree in pomology from UC Davis in 1956, and his master's degree in economics from UC Berkeley in 1961. Beginning as a researcher for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Harold discovered his passion for community development, eventually leaving the FDA in 1971 to found ASIAN, Inc.

"Through ASIAN, Inc., Harold strengthened the San Francisco Asian American community economically, socially and politically. ASIAN, Inc. helped launch many minority-owned small businesses in San Francisco, trained young professionals for the rigors of running their own businesses, and encouraged the development of trade associations. Harold leaves a rich legacy, including more than 100 non-profit organizations and agencies.

"Harold was a fierce advocate for the civil rights and equality of Asian Pacific Americans. He founded the Chinese American Voter Education Committee to increase political awareness and participation. His contributions to the Asian American Community and to the City of San Francisco are immeasurable.

"Harold's boundless energy and enthusiasm for life were contagious. He was a mentor and a friend to countless people, who greatly benefited from his wisdom, support and friendship. It is with sadness and appreciation that I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife, Wilma, his daughter, Catherine, and his son, Robert. To his family and friends, thank you for allowing him to give his time to the community he loved."

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