Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Community Development Karen Kwok Confirmation Resolution of 2026

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Phil Mendelson

Confirms Karen Kwok’s reappointment to CAPICD for a term through April 17, 2029, ensuring ongoing leadership in Asian and Pacific Islander community development.

Referred to Committee on Human Services

Summary of Bill: PR 26-0700 (Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Community Development Karen Kwok Confirmation Resolution of 2026)

Purpose and intent

This measure confirms the reappointment of Karen Kwok to the Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Community Development (CAPICD) for a term through April 17, 2029.
The resolution follows the Mayor’s nomination and aligns with the DC Confirmation Act of 1979 and the Office of Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs Establishment Act of 2001.

Key provisions

Sec. 2: Confirms Karen Kwok as a public member of CAPICD, established under the Office of Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs Establishment Act (DC Law 14-28; DC Official Code § 2-1374). Term end: April 17, 2029.
Sec. 3: Requires the Council to transmit a copy of the resolution to the nominee and to the Mayor upon adoption.
Sec. 4: Takes effect immediately.

Who would be affected

Karen Kwok would continue serving as a public member on CAPICD.
CAPICD, the District government body focused on Asian and Pacific Islander community development, would continue its oversight with Kwok as a confirmed member.
The local DC Ward 1 community (Kwok’s stated ward) and broader DC Asian and Pacific Islander communities that rely on CAPICD programming and advocacy.

Background and qualifications (contained in accompanying materials)

Kwok has a background in public health, nursing, community development, and stakeholder engagement. Experience includes health equity, program design, evaluation, and partnerships with government and nonprofit entities.
The nomination packet highlights Kwok’s leadership in health and community development, with emphasis on diverse stakeholder engagement and data-informed decision-making.

Procedural/timeline aspects

Action history shows introduction on May 6, 2026.
Referral: Committee on Human Services (May 19, 2026).
Immediate effectiveness upon adoption (Sec. 4).
The Council would finalize confirmation by adopting the resolution and transmitting it to the Mayor and nominee.

Notable context

The bill is a routine confirmations measure, serving to maintain continuity on CAPICD by reappointing an existing public member with demonstrated expertise in minority health, community organizing, and cross-sector collaboration.

Overall, PR 26-0700 is a straightforward confirmation of Karen Kwok to the Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Community Development for a 3-year term, with immediate effect and standard procedural steps for notification.