Impacts

Lasting impacts created by hardship

The Submerged Half

“For no nation can ever make real and lasting progress in civilization unless its women are following close to its men, if not actually abreast with them.”

Honor Her Story…

Lee passed away in 1966 at the age of 69. She never got to experience what her hard work had achieved, the Chinese Exclusion Act was lifted in 1943. It forever remained unclear to Lee if she had secured the right to vote. Even though she could not experience the impacts of her work, she paved the way for women across America. She inspired women of color to fight not just for womens’ suffrage but also to fight against racial discrimination. She continues to be honored today, in 2018 the Chinatown Post Office was officially renamed “The Mabel Lee Memorial Post Office” to honor her impacts on her beloved community.

Lasting Impacts still seen today.

 Lee's pioneering efforts in advocating for Chinese-American women's rights in the early 20th century helped pave the way for greater political participation and representation by Asian-Americans. Today, Asian-American women are more active in politics, with individuals like Kamala Harris, the first female Vice President of the U.S., and other Asian-American leaders breaking barriers.  Lee's focus on both racial and gender equality laid the groundwork for modern intersectional advocacy. Today, organizations like the Asian American Feminist Collective and movements like #MeToo include Asian-American voices, advocating for the rights and experiences of women of color, continuing the fight Lee championed. As well as the ACLU advocacy organization.  Lee’s own academic and professional achievements inspire greater opportunities for Asian-American women in education and leadership. Today, more Asian-American women are pursuing higher education and leading in diverse fields, from academia to business, reflecting the pathways Lee helped create.