May 30, 2010

Congressman Gregory W. Meeks Recognizes Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month

(WASHINGTON, DC)- Congressman Gregory W. Meeks issues the following statement in recognition of Asian -Pacific American Heritage Month:

"As Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month-which is a celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States- draws to a close, we must acknowledge the long lasting contributions this group of people has made to the United States. Originally, a week long celebration when it was implemented in 1978, the month of May was selected to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States as well as to acknowledge the completion of the transcontinental railroad which was constructed mostly by Chinese immigrant workers. The extraordinary language, religious, and cultural diversity of our Asian-Pacific American citizens is an integral dimension of our collective diversity.  The hardships and difficulties that Asian-Pacific Americans have had to overcome go back more than 150 years, and include some of the most dreadful episodes of discrimination and exclusion in our nation’s history. 
Today, the Asian-Pacific American legacy of seeking justice, equality, inclusion, and full participation in America’s economy, and culture, continues to strengthen American democracy.  Asian-Pacific Americans have performed an indispensable role in building our nation into a world power.  From modest beginnings, Asian-Pacific Americans are distinguishing themselves as community leaders, public servants, entrepreneurs, educators, scientists, jurists, members of our armed forces, and elected officials.  The achievements of Asian-Pacific Americans is one of the most inspiring of stories of how America has come to be a more equal nation, a more inclusive society, complete with diversity and inclusion that inspires the world."

###