Two Asian American professors with ties to York College have collaborated on a timely and engaging new documentary examining the growing political influence of Asian Americans.

Aptly titled, “Invisible No More,” the filmmakers, Larry Tung, a former adjunct in York’s Performing and Fine Arts department, partnered with Mehrunnisa Wani, a full-time journalism professor in York’s English Department, to create a documentary highlighting the growing political power of Asian Americans at every level of American government.

Although the film was completed before Zohran Mamdani’s success in the recent mayoral election, his victory reinforces the very trends the filmmakers explore.

Featured participants in the film include New York City Councilmembers Linda Lee, Sandra Ung, and Susan Zhuang; State Senator John Liu; and former State Senator Iwen Chu. Together, they share their journeys into public service—describing how they broke barriers, earned their places at the table, and now champion the voices of their communities.

“We created this documentary because it feels like such an incredible time for city politics,” said Wani. “There are more Asian Americans — and people who see the world like we do — stepping into positions of power than ever before. You can see things shifting: the conversations, the legislation, and the energy in our communities. And as a woman, it’s deeply personal for me. It’s inspiring to see people who look like us, who carry stories like ours, finally shaping the future of our city.”

Tung, a prolific documentarian who now teaches at the SUNY Fashion Institute of Technology, while pursuing his doctoral degree, added, “We’d like to use this film to educate and inspire younger generations of Americans, especially Asian Americans, to participate in civic life in any way they can. Representation matters!”

Recently screened at the New York Documentary Film Festival (NYDFF), “Invisible No More” underscores a powerful demographic and political shift. As the festival description notes, “Asian Americans are no longer just an emerging force in New York City politics—they are making sweeping strides at all levels of government. The surge in Asian American representation is undeniable, with their political strength and influence on full display, particularly in Brooklyn’s newly designated Asian opportunity district, created in 2023 through the once-a-decade redistricting process to reflect the explosive growth and impact of the Asian American community.”

Congratulations to Tung and Wani for producing this important and timely documentary.

Jan 28, 2026 4:08 PM