[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 56 (Tuesday, May 9, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S3688]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TAIWANESE-AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK

 Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. President, this month I join people in New 
Jersey and throughout the nation in celebrating Pacific-American 
Heritage Month. The Pacific-American community represents an important 
part of America's future and I applaud their proud celebration of 
heritage and community.
  Taiwanese-American Heritage Week, from May 7 to May 14, celebrates 
the unique and diverse contributions of the more than 500,000 
Taiwanese-Americans in the United States. These Americans have played a 
significant role in our nation's life and their countless 
accomplishments can be found in every facet of American society. For 
instance, Taiwanese-Americans have succeeded as 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. Since 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 on March 18 of opposition leader Chen Shui-bian as 
president, and my friend Annette Lu as vice-president, represents the 
crowning achievement of the struggle of the people of Taiwan for 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 is 
still more work to be done before Taiwan's status and global 
contributions are properly respected and appreciated.
  Mr. President, Taiwanese-American Heritage Week recognizes the 
longstanding friendship between the United States and Taiwan. I commend 
the great accomplishments and contributions of the Taiwanese-American 
community.

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