California’s first Asian lieutenant governor has ties to esteemed Chinese military family

California Democrat Fiona Ma has shattered barriers as the first Asian-American lieutenant governor in state history, hailing from a distinguished Chinese military lineage. At 60, Ma, currently California's treasurer, has made history by securing the second-highest executive position. Speaking to the South China Morning Post, Ma expressed profound humility and honor, referring to the achievement as a "breakthrough bamboo ceiling."

Born to Chinese immigrant parents in New York, Ma embarked on her political journey in San Francisco, rising through the ranks to become the city's Board of Supervisors member. Her ascent to state-level politics saw her hold various key positions before being elected lieutenant governor. The significance of Ma's heritage has garnered attention in Chinese-language media and online forums, given her familial roots in a prominent military and political family in Yunnan province during the early 20th century.

Ma's lineage includes her grandfather, Ma Zhen, a lieutenant general in the Republic of China Army who served as Kunming's mayor from 1928. Her grandfather was bestowed the honorary title of having "three generals under one roof" due to the military careers of his two brothers, who were also generals. These three brothers distinguished themselves during the Sino-Japanese War, earning widespread recognition for their contributions to the war effort and solidifying the family's reputation.

Remarkably, Ma learned about her grandfather's military legacy only later in life, as he passed away three years before her birth. Her family's heritage has been preserved as a heritage site in Kunming, now serving as a cultural venue. Ma paid tribute to her ancestral home in 2023, visiting the site with her father. Her parents' journey as immigrants, arriving in the United States with only US$3,000 and a dream, has profoundly shaped Ma's political narrative.

They instilled in her the values of hard work, education, perseverance, and giving back, believing in the American dream, which she believes has led her to this historic achievement.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ma emphasized its significance for generations of Asian-Americans who have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations. "I hope this victory inspires every young person, especially young girls and children of immigrants, to dream big, work hard, and never let anyone tell them what they cannot achieve," she expressed to SCMP.