Pelosi Honors Lunar New Year
Washington, D.C. - House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today and joined millions of Americans in celebrating the Lunar New Year, which begins tomorrow.
"On the occasion of the Lunar New Year, we take this opportunity to honor the significant contributions made to our country by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). The AAPI community of California's 8th District is a vital part of San Francisco's proud diversity, and I am proud that California is home to the largest Asian American and Pacific Islander community in the country.
"This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Immigration Act of 1965 and the 30th anniversary of the Refugee Assistance Act of 1975. Together, these two acts of Congress dramatically reformed our nation's immigration policies and reaffirmed America's unique role as a haven for immigrants and refugees seeking opportunity, security, and freedom. Today, almost 13 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders live in the United States, and their contributions strengthen our society.
"Events in recent weeks have challenged all Americans, but particularly our friends and neighbors in the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
"The devastating tsunami that hit the Indian Ocean on December 26 deeply affected Asians and Pacific Islanders across the globe. All Americans were touched by the dignity and strength of survivors who lost so much and are now focused on helping others in their communities. Continuing a long history of showing resilience in the face of adversity, Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders here at home have been instrumental in raising funds and mobilizing resources to help their communities abroad.
"A few days later, on January 1, we lost the first Asian American to serve in the leadership of the Congress, my dear friend Congressman Bob Matsui of California. Despite imprisonment in an internment camp during World War II, Bob maintained unwavering faith in the American promise of opportunity and justice. As a Member of Congress, Bob was instrumental in securing a Presidential apology to surviving Japanese Americans internees. He was also a national leader on Social Security, and we will miss his expertise and passion as we debate this issue in the coming months.
"Bob Matsui leaves us a legacy of overcoming hardship to make America greater. Now, a new generation of Asian American and Pacific Islanders stands poised to continue the work of expanding opportunity, increasing civic participation, and ensuring equality for all Americans.
"House Democrats are committed to fighting for civil, social, and economic justice. To that end, we have put forward our New Partnership for America's Future, which reaffirms our dedication to six core American values: national security, prosperity, opportunity, fairness, community, and accountability.
"As we celebrate the Lunar New Year, let us continue in the tradition of Bob Matsui and millions of Asian American and Pacific Islander immigrants, refugees, and their descendents who believe in the promise of our country. And let us rededicate ourselves to making America's future brighter for all our children."