Kendra Lee Adams
Li Keng was my dear friend, even though more than 50 years, different races and life challenges separated us. We both loved Shirley Temple movies, telling the truth, beautiful flowers, pigs, helping others and were not afraid to get mad or sad about injustice together. Li Keng taught me everything about the Chinese American experience, and also how to be an amazing, additive and tough person while still loving yourself and being proud of who you are, and at the same time being flexible and adaptive. I met Li Keng through my work at Angel Island Immigration Station, where she was once a detainee, and then major donor and supporter! 60 years later, to tell the unheard and much needed stories of the brave and beautiful people, like Li Keng, who immigrated to the US through Angel Island. She was simply the most wonderful, smart, sassy, tough, loving, dear lady I have had the pleasure to call my friend. I miss her so much, and sometimes walk by Piedmont Gardens just to feel her presence. Li Keng was the embodiment of the American Dream, and again my wonderful friend that I was so lucky to know. I love Li Keng, and everything she taught me to become a better person. I'm sorry and sad the rest of my life, that we didn't say goodbye before she went to heaven, where I'm sure she is also making things better. Kendra Lee Adams, Oakland, CA