Political campaigns in San Francisco rely heavily on Chinese American voters, who make up a quarter of the city’s population. For the upcoming school board recall on Feb. 15, what, exactly, do the Chinese-language political ads say to the community?
In general, the messaging from the campaigns that support the recalls are similar in all languages. But some content is tailor-made for Chinese audiences.
Standard reporter Han Li discussed the ads with KQED’s Brian Watt and Scott Shafer on Morning Edition.
Gallery: English Translations of Ads Targeting Local Chinese-speaking Residents
A Chinese-language ad featuring a parent quoted saying, “we cannot wait another year.” | Screenshot from YouTube
A Chinese-language ad showcasing a mother hovering over her son saying, “[My son] is playing games on the computer every day wasting time.” | Screenshot from YouTube
This Chinese-language ad says “Recall Collins, Lopez and Moliga.” | Screenshot from YouTube
A Chinese-language ad featuring a parent quoted saying, “we cannot wait another year.” | Screenshot from YouTube
A child is portrayed doing “online learning” with the caption, “[My kids] stay at home for online learning for 18 months.” | Screenshot from YouTube
A child is portrayed doing “online learning” with the caption, “My son and daughter are very frustrated and unhappy.” | Screenshot from YouTube
Thank you to the San Francisco Standard (and as always throughout history to KQED) for your excellent reporting. Praying and hoping that all 3 of these corrupt, incompetent, and racist school board members are recalled by Tuesday. There is no excuse for trying to eliminate Abraham Lincoln and George Washington from history or for dumbing down and destroying our schools. All San Franciscans, vote YES on Tuesday on all 3 recall measures and make sure that all of your friends, neighbors, and colleagues do the same.