Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland's historic win
Marilyn Strickland made history in the November general election when she became one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress. Discover more about Marilyn Strickland’s career and history-making win below.
Strickland was born in South Korea to a South Korean mother and a Black father who was stationed in the city after WWII. On her website, Strickland shares that her parents faced discrimination, and in spite of that, they worked hard to give her the opportunities that they themselves were denied.
Strickland grew up in Washington state and attended the University of Washington where she studied Sociology before earning her MBA from Clark Atlanta University.
As a long-time resident of Washington state, Strickland served on the Tacoma city council prior to becoming the first Asian-born mayor of Tacoma. She was also the first Black woman to hold the position. In 2020, Strickland ran to represent the 10th congressional district of Washington and defeated her opponent by a wide margin.
On January 3, 2021, Strickland was officially sworn into office along with Michelle Steel and Young Kim who also made history as the first Korean-American women ever elected to Congress. Additionally, Strickland also made history as the first Black person to represent Washington State at the federal level. At the swearing-in ceremony, she honored her Korean heritage by wearing a hanbok.
Congresswoman Strickland is an inspiration to many, especially those who haven’t seen themselves represented in political office. Celebrate AAPI history, contributions, and challenges that AAPI women have faced in the United States by registering for our free event here.
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