FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 29, 2005

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi: Valuing Fighters for Liberty and Freedom During Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which begins Sunday, May 1st.

“We recognize the month of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, a special opportunity to pay tribute to the contributions of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, including immigrants, refugees, and natives.

“More than 13 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), representing a diverse community of backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, make their homes in the United States.  Their unique contributions enhance of the moral fabric and character of our great country.

“As we celebrate the significant progress made by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, it is right for us to honor the memory of great leaders of the AAPI community who have recently passed away -- including Fred Korematsu, who dared to challenge the U.S. government over the Japanese internment camps, John Tsu, former chair for the White House Initiative on AAPIs and longtime community activist, Patrick Okura, a great civil rights leader and Japanese American internee, and Magdaleno Duenas, a Filipino veteran and community leader.  We remember my dear friend Congressman Robert Matsui, who despite imprisonment in an internment camp during World War II, never lost faith in our country.  He went onto become a national champion for all of America’s seniors, and the first Asian-American to serve in the leadership of the House of Representatives.

“Their legacies are part of the ongoing struggle of all Asian American and Pacific Islanders, who, in spite of having to overcome great hardship and discrimination, maintain an abiding and unbreakable belief in the promise of our country, and move forward to make remarkable contributions to our country.  In memory of these great figures in the history of our nation, it is only fitting that this year’s theme for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is ‘Liberty and Freedom for All.’

“Each of these individuals leaves us with a legacy that still burns to be fulfilled.  For despite the great progress that we have made, we still have a long way to go to ensuring equality and expanding opportunities so that all Americans have a chance to achieve their full potential.  Their work will continue on in all of us.

“This year we also commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Immigration Act of 1965, and the 30th Anniversary of the Refugee Assistance Act of 1975.  These laws demonstrate our national commitment to serving as a beacon of hope for all those in search of the opportunity and freedom that are the promises of America.  In the three decades since the signing of the Refugee Assistance Act, the United States has provided shelter to millions of  refugees escaping persecution, tyranny, and often, unspeakable tragedies.  Each time we look into the face of diversity, we see great heroism and personal dignity. 

“As we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage month, let us rededicate ourselves to answer their enduring call to service, and fight for justice in our country.”

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi