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<May 2, 2006>
Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Commemorates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—May 2, 2006—Washington, D.C.— Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) join the Asian and Pacific Islander American (APIA) community to celebrate May’s Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. This year’s theme, “Dreams and Challenges of Asian Pacific Americans” reflects the Asian and Pacific Islander American (APIA) community’s commitment to fairness and equality. We also take the time this month to remember those who helped pave the way for APIAs such as Sam Chu Lin and Judge Delbert Wong. Both men were extraordinary fighters for equality, justice, and freedom for all Americans. The month of May remains a time for all communities to reflect and remember those APIA’s who preceded us in our fight for civil rights and social justice. Additionally, this year marks the 100th anniversary of Filipino immigration to this country. Our country was founded by immigrants who believed in freedom, and they paved the way for all Americans to live in a country that values our liberty and freedom. The greatness of our country stems from its diversity, and we must continue to build a promising future for all. “As we join together during Asian Pacific American Heritage month, let us remember the victims of Hurricane Katrina and Rita. It has been nine months since the hurricanes devastated the Gulf Coast and the victims still continue to suffer. We need to stand together and urge the administration to provide cultural and linguistic appropriate relief services to our communities and ensure that they don’t remain in the blind spot of our country,” said Rep. Mike Honda (CA-15), Chair of CAPAC. “Asian Pacific Heritage Month helps us to remember the contributions of those before us as well as the opportunities we have to promote awareness in our present and future. Through working together, we will continue to grow as a community. For our community on Guam, Asian Pacific Heritage is not something to celebrate one month out of every year, rather it is a source of pride for all of us always,” said Rep. Madeleine Bordallo (Guam). “As the only Native Hawaiian and Chinese American in the U.S. Senate, I am proud to join in the celebration honoring the achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders across our country. I know first hand the significant impact that AAPIs have made and continue to make in creating initiatives that strengthen and improve the well being of our communities,” stated Senator Akaka. “This month, let us not only reflect on these achievements but also encourage younger leaders to build upon these foundations of success,” said Senator Daniel Akaka (HI). “Americans of Asian and Pacific ancestry comprise one of the fastest-growing segments of the U.S. population. Their contributions can be seen in diverse fields, such as medicine, high technology, community advocacy, sports, and culture and the arts. By recognizing the contributions of Asian Americans, we recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in American society,” said Senator Daniel Inouye (HI). “Asian Pacific American Heritage month is a special opportunity to acknowledge and pay tribute to the contributions of this community – from I. M. Pei, Maya Lin, Tiger Woods and Michelle Kwan, to Amy Tan, Yo Yo Ma, and General Eric Shinseki. Our nation would not be what it is today without their immeasurable input,” said Rep. Doris O. Matsui (CA-5). “Their unique contributions enhance the moral fabric and character of this great nation and illustrate this year’s theme of ‘Dreams and Challenges of Asian Pacific Americans. “To protect America's greatness, we should all be sensitive to the fact that democratic participation by people of all races and backgrounds, including Asian-Pacific Americans, is crucial to our nation's health and vitality. As we celebrate Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month this year, let us honor not only the invaluable contributions by Asians and Pacific Islanders in the fields of education, science, business, entertainment and sports, but especially those who are of Asian and Pacific Islander descent who have worn the military uniform – for their sacrifices to protect and defend our American values and way of life,” said Rep. Eni Faleomavaega (AS). I encourage the APA community to utilize Asian Pacific American Heritage Month by once again celebrating their diverse cultures and by calling upon the Administration and Congress to address their unique concerns and needs as we debate important national issues that are priorities in Washington, D.C. 2006 marks another important year for our Asian Pacific American community, in particular our Filipino American community, who are commemorating the centennial of sustained immigration from the Philippines into the United States” said Rep. Ed Case (HI-02). “Asian Pacific American Heritage Month showcases the APA community. We take this opportunity to celebrate the contributions and aspirations of this group which has done so much to make our nation a better place to live and raise our families,” said Rep. Neil Abercrombie (HI-1). "The Asian Pacific American community remains and always will be an integral and vibrant part of American society. As we take part in the celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, I urge everyone to participate more deeply in the civic life of our nation. The civic engagement of Asian Pacific American's will help define our collective future. By working together we can bridge, and build upon, our great nation's diverse communities and move forward with determination and unity," said Rep. David Wu (OR-1). “Today, we begin our celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month by honoring the accomplishments of Asian Pacific Americans. They have enriched our society and shaped the character of our Nation through their diverse languages, cultures, and religious beliefs. Asian Pacific Americans are helping to strengthen our economy and our communities through their hard work and ingenuity. Today, we will join the 13.5 million American citizens of Asian Pacific heritage in celebrating their historical traditions and contributions to the future and prosperity of our Nation," said Rep. Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (VA-3). ### Contact: Alicia Chon in |
