By Steve Seepersaud
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and rise of vitriol and violence targeted at Asians, William Ng ’04 feels a greater responsibility to help the Asian American community in New York.
Ng, a shareholder at the Long Island office of the law firm Littler, will seek to
make an impact as president-elect of the Asian American Bar Association of New York
(AABANY). He has been active with the association for more than 10 years, serving
in a variety of leadership roles such as board member, committee chair and vice president
of finance and development.
“It’s an honor and privilege to be president-elect,” said Ng, whose term as president will begin April 1, 2022. “AABANY’s mission is to improve the study and practice of law, and the fair administration of justice for all, by ensuring meaningful participation of Asian Americans in the legal profession. We want to encourage the professional growth of our members and advocate for the Asian American community as a whole.”
Ng says AABANY has been at the forefront of addressing how the Asian American community, particularly in New York, has been blamed for the pandemic and subjected to discrimination and hate crimes. The organization produced a report about the rising tide of violence that was cited by national news outlets including The New York Times and CNN.
“During these unprecedented times, AABANY is essential in not only raising awareness, but also proposing solutions to elected officials, local authorities and community organizations on how to combat and respond this anti-Asian rhetoric and violence,” he said.
While combating racism is front of mind now, it’s not the only area that AABANY focuses on. Ng enjoys being in the organization because of the opportunities for fellowship with other attorneys who share his desire for professional development.
Because Binghamton University prepares so many future lawyers to earn their law degrees, it should come as little surprise that Ng is in the company of other alumni. As president, he’ll work with Executive Director Yang Chen ’87, whom Ng considers a great friend and mentor. Other alumni who have served in AABANY leadership positions are Linda Lin ‘00 and William Wang ’00, past presidents; Bobby Liu ’93, former board member; Christopher Bae ’10, secretary; and Beatrice Leong ‘06, membership director.
“While I was at Binghamton, I served in the Student Association and as a Student Conduct Board Member, which were both very rewarding learning experiences to further my interest in law,” Ng said. “Since graduation, I’ve been involved in the Asian and Asian American Law Council and the Long Island Committee of the Alumni Association’s Metro New York Chapter.”
Ng wants to help position AABANY for success in a post-pandemic environment. Fundraising and ramping up virtual programs are two of his highest priorities.
“AABANY must also use its resources and platform to make sure our voices are heard on issues affecting our members and the greater Asian American community. Our constituencies are not mutually exclusive, and it is essential for AABANY to help elevate as many of its members to positions of influence in their respective industries so they can effectuate positive change.”
