Book Talk with Lily Qi: Elected American

Elected American: From Red China to Blue Maryland tells the inspirational story of Lily Qi’s dreams, setbacks, and achievements with candor and humility. Growing up in Mao’s Shanghai when “politics meant danger,” she never imagined running for public office. However, living in America, Qi came to see political participation as a missed opportunity for immigrants. As she campaigned to energize her cultural base, Qi realized she had to teach first-time voters how to make their votes count in a system not designed for them.

As the only U.S. state legislator to have lived through China’s Cultural Revolution, Qi brings a rare cross-system perspective to American politics and the modern-day Asian American identity. Elected American is a political memoir and an immigrant story that emphasizes that democracy doesn’t wait on the sidelines—it favors those who participate.

Join the discussion. Admission is $15 for general admission // $40 admission + copy of the book. Books will be available for purchase at the event for $35.

This program includes a complimentary lunch buffet. For more information, visit Eventbrite.