Congressman Mark Takano (D-CA) will address AU students on April 12 at 8:15 p.m. in MGC 4-5 at an event brought to campus by the Kennedy Political Union.
Takano, a representative of California’s 41st District since 2012, is the first openly gay person of color to serve in the United States Congress. According to a press release from KPU, he has advocated for veterans affairs, immigration reform, small businesses, infrastructure growth and the protection of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security during his time in office. He currently sits on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, the Education and Workforce Committee and the Science, Space and Technology Committee.
Before serving as a representative, Takano was a high school teacher for more than 20 years and served as the president of the Riverside Community College Board of Trustees, according to the press release.
This event is co-sponsored by AU Queers and Allies, AU College Democrats and the AU Asian American Student Union.
Takano will deliver opening remarks, and then attending students will be able to ask him questions during a Q-and-A session.
According to the press release, KPU is bringing Takano to campus as part of its continual effort to highlight the diverse identities and interests of students on campus.
“Takano’s record of serving as the first openly gay person of color in the United States Congress is not only a high achievement, but one that is highly relevant to the political interests of many American University students,” KPU Communications Director Coby Eiss said in the release.
