Pioneering actor and passionate civil rights activist George Takei is arguably the most recognizable Asian American celebrity in the world.
In the summer of 1973, four years after the Star Trek TV series ended, activists encouraged Takei to run for the Los Angeles City Council seat vacated by Tom Bradley, who had just been elected the first African American mayor of Los Angeles. His name recognition, coupled with his interest in political issues and experience as an active volunteer in other campaigns, prepared Takei for a hard-fought battle on a platform of affordable housing, public transportation, and public safety. It was an extremely close race that Takei ultimately lost, coming in second to David Cunningham. If elected, Takei would have been the first Asian American to serve on the LA City Council; as it was, that landmark would not come for another 12 years.
The campaign poster on this 11 oz. mug is part of JANM’s permanent collection, gifted by George Takei. The slogan is a contemporary addition.
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New Frontiers: The Many Worlds Of George Takei
