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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC– Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, today released the following statement in recognition of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which is being celebrated throughout the month of May.
“Earlier this month, I was honored to attend the first ever Congressional Democratic Asian and Pacific Islander American Leadership Summit, where House and Senate Democrats met with over 100 Asian Pacific American leaders from across the nation.
“Under the leadership of Chairman Mike Honda (D-CA), the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus has been an instrumental and influential partner in working with the Democratic Caucus and leadership here in Congress.
“During this month, we commemorate the significant contributions that the Asian American and Pacific Islander community has made to our country.
“There are more than 14 million Asian American and Pacific Islanders in the United States, including about 300,000 in my home state of Maryland. Asian Pacific Americans also have the most diverse background of any minority population, tracing their roots to almost fifty different countries and ethnic groups.
“Today, Asian Pacific Americans play an important role in every aspect of American life – as authors and artists, as business leaders, as political leaders, as military leaders, as scientists and innovators, as athletes, and in virtually every other aspect of American society.
“In addition to recognizing the important role that Asian Pacific Americans play in our country, this month’s celebration is also a time to remember significant historical contributions that Asian Pacific Americans have made to our nation. From the construction of our transcontinental railroads to defending the United States in times of war, Asian Pacific Americans have contributed greatly to the American tapestry.
“I am pleased Americans have so much to benefit as a result of our diverse society. We continue to learn from each other and share each other’s traditions, history, and culture.
“That is why it gives me great pleasure today to recognize the significant advances and contributions made by the Asian Pacific American Community to our country during Asian Pacific Heritage Month.”
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