[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 54 (Thursday, May 4, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E659]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TAIWANESE AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK 2000

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOB SCHAFFER

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 4, 2000

  Mr. SCHAFFER. Mr. Speaker, this month I join people throughout 
Colorado and across the nation in celebrating Pacific American Heritage 
Month. The Pacific American community represents an important 
foundation of America's future and I commend their proud celebration of 
heritage and community.
  Taiwanese American Heritage Week--held from May 7 to May 14--
celebrates the unique and diverse contributions of the more than 
500,000 Taiwanese Americans in the United States. This portion of the 
population has made countless significant achievements in this country 
and their accomplishments can be found in every facet of American life. 
For instance, Taiwanese Americans have succeeded as successful and 
notable artists, Nobel Laureate scientists, researchers, human rights 
activists, and business leaders.
  In addition to recognizing these contributions, this is an excellent 
opportunity to celebrate the success of democracy on the island of 
Taiwan. Sine 1987, the Taiwanese people have possessed the rights to 
select their own leaders, practice the religion of their choice, and 
express their thoughts openly and freely. Taiwan is a vibrant and 
democratic participant in the family of nations. The election last 
March of opposition leader Mr. Chen Shui-bian as the new president, and 
my friend Ms. Annette Lu as the new vice-president of Taiwan, should be 
considered the crowning achievement of this drive by the people of 
Taiwan toward full-fledged democracy and freedom.
  While Taiwan has established a model democracy, there remain 
political challenges. Gaining worldwide recognition of the legitimacy 
of Taiwan's government is paramount. With all that Taiwanese and 
Taiwanese-Americans have accomplished, there can be no complete 
satisfaction until Taiwan's status and global contributions are 
respected and appreciated.
  Mr. Speaker, Taiwanese American Heritage Week recognizes the long-
standing friendship between the United States and Taiwan. I commend the 
great accomplishments and contributions of the Taiwanese American 
community.

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