Seattle attorney Mason Ji is on a mission to support immigrants and promote cultural awareness in the greater Seattle area. Despite his demanding legal practice at Perkins Coie, Ji dedicates his spare time to helping Asian immigrants navigate the challenges of settling in a new country.
A Personal Journey: Growing up in a single-family immigrant household, Ji experienced firsthand the struggles that many immigrant families face. His parents emigrated from China in the early 1990s, and Ji and his younger sister were born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. After his father returned to China for work, Ji’s mother moved the family to the Seattle area, where she worked multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet. Ji recalls times when they didn’t have enough money for food, highlighting the financial hardships many immigrants encounter.
Empowering the Community: Recognizing the obstacles faced by Chinese American immigrants, especially those with limited English proficiency, Ji launched a monthly radio show in Mandarin on KKNW. Through his show, Decoding America, Ji educates listeners on various aspects of the legal system, such as landlord-tenant laws, voting rights, and court procedures. By providing valuable information in their native language, Ji aims to empower Chinese American immigrants and build their confidence in navigating the legal landscape.
In addition to his radio show, Ji actively contributes to the community through his involvement with the Friends of Bellevue Cross-Cultural Center. This nonprofit organization, founded by Ji, focuses on fostering cross-cultural dialogue and unity among people of diverse backgrounds in Bellevue, a suburb of Seattle. Ji’s commitment to promoting cultural understanding and collaboration has made him an integral member of the board, as recognized by Conrad Lee, the first Asian mayor of Bellevue and a mentor to Ji.
Overcoming Challenges: Ji’s journey to success was not without its hurdles. Growing up as one of the few Asian Americans in his classes, Ji faced racial discrimination and bullying, which often left him feeling isolated. Despite these challenges, Ji excelled academically and found solace in the library, where he sought refuge and support through mentoring programs. His resilience and determination propelled him to achieve academic success and pursue his passion for law and international diplomacy.
A Global Perspective: Ji’s interest in international affairs and diplomacy led him to pursue opportunities that would broaden his understanding of global governance. During his time at Yale University, Ji served as a delegate representing Seychelles at the United Nations, where he engaged in discussions on disarmament and climate change. His experiences at the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders further shaped his perspective on international relations and policy-making.
Educational Pursuits: Ji’s academic journey took him to the University of Oxford on a Rhodes scholarship, where he obtained master’s degrees in global governance and diplomacy, as well as public policy. Subsequently, Ji attended Harvard Law School, where he honed his skills in commercial litigation and international trade. His diverse educational background equipped him to address complex legal issues and advocate for his clients with a global perspective.
Community Engagement: Beyond his legal practice, Ji remains actively involved in various community initiatives aimed at addressing social issues and promoting cultural awareness. As a board member of Hunger Free America, Ji draws on his personal experience of hunger to advocate for food security and support food pantries across the United States. His dedication to fighting hunger reflects his commitment to giving back to those in need and creating a more equitable society.
Teaching and Mentorship: Ji’s passion for education extends to his role as a lecturer on international law at the University of Washington School of Law. By engaging with students and sharing his expertise, Ji contributes to shaping the next generation of legal professionals. Additionally, his mentorship under Conrad Lee and other influential figures has been instrumental in guiding his career path and instilling in him a sense of civic responsibility and leadership.
Advocacy and Impact: Ji’s involvement in professional organizations, such as the American Bar Association, highlights his commitment to addressing broader issues within the legal profession. As the district representative for Washington and Oregon in the ABA Young Lawyers Division, Ji actively engages in initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and advocacy. His role as the ABA’s alternate observer to the U.S. Mission to the United Nations underscores his dedication to advancing international cooperation and legal diplomacy.
A Man of the World: Seattle attorney Mason Ji’s multifaceted approach to supporting immigrants and promoting cultural awareness reflects his deep-rooted commitment to community service and social justice. Through his legal expertise, community engagement, and advocacy efforts, Ji exemplifies the values of empathy, resilience, and leadership. As he continues to make a positive impact in the lives of others, Ji’s mission to empower immigrants and foster cross-cultural understanding stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
