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Invites Representatives of APA Organizations to Discuss Top Issues
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, August 23, 2004
LAUREL - On Monday, August 23, Congressman Steny Hoyer met with a range of representatives from the Asian Pacific American (APA) Community in Maryland to hear from them about issues on which they believe the Congress ought to be focused, to discuss how he can assist their efforts, and to advance dialogue on these important priorities.
"I appreciate all of you joining me here so that I can hear from you about issues on which the Congress ought to be focused and discuss how I can partner with you to assist your efforts," said Congressman Hoyer. "As the leaders of the variety of organizations represented here, you play an important role for the APA community in Maryland and you are a powerful voice for the interests and values of Asian American families. I want to hear what you are concerned about and discuss real ways to address these issues," Hoyer added.
"Making sure that Asian American businesses have access to capital, fighting to raise achievement and reduce disparities in our schools, and improving the way that immigrants can obtain U.S. citizenship are critical issues we must be focused on as a Nation. The United Negro Fund says, 'a mind is a terrible thing to waste.' America does not have one individual mind to waste. We must make sure that every individual is able to reach their full potential, utilizing all of their abilities and talents. And I'll continue to work with you to this end." Hoyer concluded.
Asian Pacific Americans (APAs) make up 4.1 percent of Maryland's population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the nation's APA population continues to grow at a much faster rate than the population as a whole. The number of people who reported being Asian since the 2000 Census grew 12.5 percent to 13.5 million on July 1, 2003.
Congressman Hoyer was joined at the meeting by Delegate Susan C. Lee, Deputy Majority Whip in the Maryland House of Delegates; Beth Wong, Prince George's County Office of Community Relations; Representatives from the Maryland Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development; and Representatives from Numerous Other APA Community Organizations in Maryland.
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