Sam Chu Lin, Asian American Broadcast Pioneer, Dies
He was an Asian American face on broadcast news decades before it was en vogue, a tireless journalist dedicated to getting Asian American stories broadcast, and a multi-dimensional newsman without peer.
On Sunday, March 5, 2006, the unmistakable voice went silent, as Asian American broadcast pioneer Sam Chu Lin died suddenly in Burbank, Calif. He was 67.
"Its quite a shock for everyone," said his widow Judy.
From coast to coast, news of Chu Lin's unexpected death sent shockwaves.
Both U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta and Congressman Mike Honda (D-San Jose) called Chu Lin a journalism pioneer.
"Throughout his career, Sam stood strong against discrimination and helped break down negative stereotypes, all the while conducting himself with a great amount of integrity, credibility, and enthusiasm," said Mineta, a former San Jose congressman and mayor, in a statement.
"Sam was proud of his Chinese American heritage. He wasn't shy about using his roots to make the entire Asian American community, and indeed the world, a better place," Mineta added. "And today thanks in part to Sam, doors and minds that were once shut to Asian Americans are now open and accepting."
Mineta went on to call Chu Lin a "committed journalist and consummate professional."
"And he was a kind, loyal, and generous person," Mineta added. "He is someone whom I was lucky to call a peer, but even more blessed to call a friend."
Chu Lin wrote...