Celebrating AAPI Month with Officer Phon Hoonsan
May is Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and OutRVA had the pleasure of speaking with Officer Phon Hoonsan, a Richmond native for over 15 years and a military veteran with the United States Air Force and a member of the LGBTQ community. Officer Hoonsan has been a police officer for over 19 years, serving 15 years with the Richmond Police Department and working as a Public Information Officer with the Public Affairs unit.
Phon was born in Bangkok, Thailand, and moved to the United States with her family when she was 11 years old. Her transition from Thailand to the United States was a shocking experience. They arrived in Alaska during wintertime when there was a lot of snow on the ground. “I had never seen snow before! I loved seeing the snow,” said Hoonsan. They then drove across the United States to Florida, settling where her stepfather was stationed at McDill Air Force Base in Tampa Bay where she lived for her first years as a young teenager.
When Phon first moved to Richmond, the Richmond Police Department was known for being one of the most highly advanced, fast-paced, and diverse police departments in the area— she knew she wanted to be a part of that. In 2021, Officer Hoonsan was named liaison to the Asian-American and Pacific Islander community. She also participates in bringing training and awareness to the community about Asian heritage and the LGBTQ community. “It is an honor for me to further our work with the vibrant Asian community in Richmond,” said Hoonsan. “Together, we can provide excellent service and continue to enjoy strong relationships which leads to sustained success.”
As a way to overcome adversity, Phon engages in community events that are inclusive of AAPI and LGBTQ members. In fact, one of Phon’s favorite things about the LGBTQ scene in Richmond is that there’s always something to do. She and her partner will usually go on a meet-up for hikes or to a local brewery or restaurant. Hoonsan describes Richmond’s gay community as very welcoming and safe, citing the many LGBTQ-friendly businesses in town. Her mornings off typically begin with a smoothie from Ellwood Thompson’s Local Market (a local favorite in Carytown). Then she and her partner might head to Maymont Park for a walk before popping over to the Daily Restaurant for some lunch. In the evening, they can often be found catching a few laughs at the Sandman Comedy Club and dancing the night away at Babe’s if they’re not too tired.
“I believe one of the most fundamental characteristics that you can possess to overcome any adversity is to stay true to who you are, living your best authentic life,” said Hoonsan.