In an announcement that highlights the diverse cultural fabric of San Francisco, Mayor London N. Breed, alongside City Librarian Michael Lambert, appointed Genny Lim as the city's ninth Poet Laureate. A native of the city's Chinatown and a seasoned voice in the literary community, Lim brings a wealth of experience and a vision for uniting residents through the power of poetry.
Lim's selection for the honorary role comes with historical significance. She is the first Chinese American woman appointed to this position in San Francisco. Her background as a second-generation daughter of Chinese immigrants and a product of San Francisco State and Columbia University speaks volumes about her connection to the immigrant narrative, a theme often explored in her prolific work. Mayor Breed expressed her confidence in Lim, stating, "I am honored to appoint Genny as San Francico's first Chinese American Poet Laureate, who is paving the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps," in a statement.
"It is truly a great honor to have been selected as the first Chinese American to serve as San Francisco Poet Laureate", Genny Lim shared via sf.gov, reflecting on the significance of her appointment and the resonance of poetry as a tool for understanding and empowerment. Her prior recognition as the SF Jazz Poet Laureate and recipient of the Spirit of Angel Island award from the Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation demonstrates a long-standing commitment to addressing the multifaceted experiences of immigrants and communities of color.
The announcement was echoed on social media by Mayor Breed, who underscored Lim's longstanding engagement with the city's narrative and her role as a "cultural advocate" in an X post. Lim is set to deliver her inaugural address at the San Francisco Public Library and will be a central figure in poetry programs that aim to mirror and celebrate the city's diversity.
We celebrate a new chapter in our city’s literary legacy by appointing native San Franciscan Genny Lim as our 9th Poet Laureate. Genny is an extraordinary writer, performer, and cultural advocate, and she will be the first Chinese American to hold this esteemed role.
— London Breed (@LondonBreed) September 7, 2024
With a… pic.twitter.com/W5PzVC6wtR
Lim's extensive publications include works such as "Winter Place," "Child of War," and "Paper Gods and Rebels," alongside her involvement with experimental theatre through founded companies like Theatre XX. Notably, her play "Paper Angels," examining Chinese immigrant detainment on Angel Island, has achieved critical acclaim.
