Long-time Party activist, former Alameda County Supervisor, Alice Lai-Bitker (right) and a fellow awardee.

Alice Lai-Bitker was honored as The Democrat of the Year by the Alameda County Democratic Party at their Unity Dinner on October 1st. “It was one of the easiest choices the Committee has ever had to make,” said Robin Torello, County Central Committee Chair. “Alice’s is a generous and experienced mentor for new candidates or those considering running. She works hard to get other Democratic candidates elected – walking, phoning, organizing for their campaigns.”

Well-known Alameda pastor, Rev. Michael Yoshi, praised her saying “One of the things I’ve appreciated about Alice as a leader is that she has never lost her moral compass nor personal integrity while serving the community. This is a rarity in politics today where all are challenged by difficult decisions.”

Caucus Co-President Marilyn Ng said, “We’re so proud of Alice. She was a founder of the APA Democratic Caucus. For an Asian immigrant to run for political office is remarkable and noteworthy. She has been dedicated and passionate in incorporating the values of the Democratic Party into social and economic programs.”

Torello notes that Lai-Bitker – a long-time Party activist known for being a ‘un-politician’ who has focused on community and issues rather than politics – attended just about every Democratic event in the East Bay. “Alice practiced Democratic ideals when governing,” said Torello. “She worked hard for her constituents, especially those who did not have a voice — the poor, the elderly or mentally ill.”

During her 10 years on the Board of Supervisors, she worked tirelessly to make government services more accessible to residents. Among her many achievements are increased awareness of domestic violence, a safe house for sexually exploited minors, and streamlined enrollment for health insurance. She implemented initiatives to tackle health disparities and worked on economic redevelopment in the unincorporated area of Alameda County.

The Asian Pacific American Democratic Caucus is one of her visions – to serve as a vehicle for the Asian American voice in the Democratic Party. Five years later, the Caucus has emerged as an important endorsement, eagerly sought by candidates running for political office at all levels. We salute Alice and extend our warmest congratulations
on her well-deserved award.