The Impact of Mainstream Political Mobilization on Asian American Communities: The Case of Korean Americans in Los Angeles 1992-1998

Abstract

Many Korean Americans were negatively affected in the 1992 race riots in Los Angeles. The rebuilding of their neighborhoods destroyed in the riots generated new political leadership including generational change & a rise in leaders with ties to mainstream political activities. Nevertheless, the Los Angeles community has been divided over the use of political resources, since there are both Democrats & Republicans within it. The Democrats side with other minorities for civil rights, while Republicans support the demise of the liberal welfare state & favor entrepreneurship. A controversy over liquor store licenses illustrates the partisan & racial tensions in Los Angeles. Future political mobilization depends on the handling of these & generational tensions. M. Pflum