[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 202 (Thursday, December 7, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1189-E1190]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF STEPHEN SHAM

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JUDY CHU

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 7, 2023

  Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of the Honorable 
Stephen Sham, who passed away on November 29, 2023, at the age of 59. 
As the first Asian and Chinese American mayor of the City of Alhambra, 
Stephen Sham was a revered visionary, leader, and advocate who 
dedicated his life to empowering the Asian community, fostering 
economic opportunities, and promoting social equity.
  Stephen Sham was born in Beijing, China, in 1964 and later lived in 
Hong Kong before immigrating to the United States during his teenage 
years. His educational journey led him to Daniel Murphy High School in 
Los Angeles, and he went on to earn a B.S. in Business Administration 
(Entrepreneurship) from Cal State L.A. Alongside his wife, he 
successfully operated Plaza Printing, a local business, for over 25 
years.
  When Stephen first started his business, he faced racism and 
discrimination from residents who resented the growing Asian American 
community in Alhambra. Motivated by these challenges, he joined the 
Alhambra Chamber of Commerce to challenge such prejudiced views. 
Through hard work and dedication, he not only dispelled misconceptions, 
but also rose to become the Chamber's President. During his tenure, he 
played a pivotal role in enhancing community outreach and supporting 
the growth of small businesses. In fact, I was proud to honor Stephen 
as businessperson of the year in my Congressional District in 2018.
  Stephen's journey into the public service began in 2006, when those 
who knew him and benefitted from his service to the community urged him 
to run for the City Council. He answered the call and won, ultimately 
making history as the first Asian American Mayor of the City of 
Alhambra since its establishment in 1903. His leadership extended over 
four mayoral terms and 12 years on the City Council.
  During his tenure, he prioritized the needs of every resident and led 
initiatives to increase the city's and Police Department's use of 
social media platforms to better connect with the Chinese-speaking 
community. He worked closely with fellow Councilmembers to make 
Alhambra a more prosperous place during his time in office. He oversaw 
a 23 percent decline in the crime rate and a strategic investment of 
over $4 million into Public Safety equipment, with an additional $2 
million for fire training safety.
  Under his leadership, Alhambra attracted new businesses, and the city 
council invested in new recreational facilities for its growing 
community. Furthermore, the city successfully built housing to meet the 
growing needs of its residents, and Stephen collaborating with local 
non-profit organizations to reduce homelessness.
  His influence expanded beyond Alhambra as Stephen served as the 
President of the Asian Pacific American Municipal Officials (APAMO), 
the President of the Asian Pacific Islander Caucus, and the President 
of Chinese American Elected Officials (CEO). Additionally, he 
contributed to the Board of Directors of Bank Irvine in his most recent 
role.
  Stephen will be remembered by family, friends, community leaders, and 
residents for his devotion and service to equal opportunity and 
diversity in the City of Alhambra. I ask my colleagues to join me in 
commemorating the life of this extraordinary individual.

[[Page E1190]]

  

                          ____________________