Patsy Matsu Takemoto Mink (1927–2002) was the first woman of color in Congress. During her time, she pushed for legislation that supported healthcare, education, immigrants, and more. Read on to learn more about her life story and impact on Asian American politics.
“Politics is a constant involvement in the day-to-day working of society as a whole, one part of which is government.”
Patsy Mink
Born in Hawaii on December 6, 1927, Mink was ambitious from a young age. She graduated from Maui High School as class president and valedictorian, going on to graduate from the University of Hawaii with a zoology degree.
Afterwards, she was one of the few women of color to attend law school. After receiving her JD from the University of Chicago, she was unable to secure a job with established law firms due to her interracial relationship. However, Patsy persisted in the face of bigotry…
After practicing private law, Mink went on to become the first woman of color to serve in Congress. Elected as a US Representative for Hawaii, she went on to serve for 24 years in the House.
1965–1977
- Advocated for legislation that would increase access to education and childcare
- Fought for family reunification in immigration reform
- Increased awareness of Japanese internment amongst the public
- Criticized the Vietnam War, and cosponsored legislation to end military activity
- Passed the Women’s Educational Equity Act, providing millions to promote gender equality in schools
1978–1989
- Served as Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs
- Served on the Honolulu City Council
1990–2002
- Co-sponsored and co-authored of Title IX, outlawing sex discrimination in any “education program or activity receiving Financial assistance”
- Formed the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus
Reflection Questions
- How do you get involved with politics?
- Do you feel like your voice is heard? Why or why not?
- Do you feel well represented by your elected officials?
- What are some other ways you can get involved in advocating for social change?
Sources
[1] “MINK, Patsy Takemoto”. United States House of Representatives History, Art & Archives.
[2] Alexander, Kerri Lee. “Patsy Mink”. National Women’s History Museum. 2019.
—
AZI Media is a multimedia company dedicated to fostering conversations through storytelling for Asian Americans by Asian Americans. This post (and more) can also be found on our Instagram and Facebook.
Written by Kyungmin Yook and Alice Liu. Illustration by Susu Schwaber
