A message from our founder:
“I’m honored to finally announce that I have been sworn in as a 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗘𝗥 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗦 & 𝗖𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 for the 𝘾𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝙖𝙣 𝘿𝙞𝙚𝙜𝙤.
I want to extend a special thank you to the Office of Councilmember Kent Lee for the nomination, the appointment by Mayor Todd Gloria, and the San Diego City Council for the unanimous confirmation.
I am profoundly honored to be the first Vietnamese American to serve in this esteemed role as a representative for District 6, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude for granting me a seat at the table and a platform to influence crucial decisions for the city that nurtured me, particularly the neighborhoods that shaped my roots, and for the people with whom I shared both growth and struggles. The recognition that an individual, such as myself, brought up from humble beginnings, could be acknowledged through my steadfast commitment is genuinely awe-inspiring. I look forward to the opportunity to work alongside the other outstanding Commissioners for Arts and Culture.
When I was first approached in early November about this opportunity, I was overwhelmed. However, as the initial adrenaline rush subsided, I came to the epiphanic realization that every endeavor and sacrifice in my life had been leading me to this defining moment. My passion for the arts, a force I live and breathe, was not just about being a “tattoo artist” as I perceived myself; it has transformed me into a proxy for the arts and the people. To bring The Doan Foundation for the Arts to its pinnacle, I was determined not to let this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity slip away.
I am deeply thankful for the trust vested in me with this responsibility. I pledge to contribute to positive change, foster new opportunities, and serve as a dedicated voice for our marginalized communities. Together, let us, the commissioners, embark on a journey of transformation and progress for the betterment of all.”
