[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 58 (Thursday, May 11, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E706]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              CELEBRATING TAIWANESE-AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETER DEUTSCH

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 11, 2000

  Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, this month I join with citizens across the 
nation in celebrating Pacific American Heritage Month. The Pacific 
American community represents an important foundation of America's 
future and I commend the proud celebration of its heritage.
  Taiwanese-American Heritage Week, the part of Pacific American 
Heritage Month 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 our country and their accomplishments can 
be found in every facet of American life. 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, Taiwanese-American 
Heritage Week also provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate the 
success of democracy on the island of Taiwan. Since 1987, the Taiwanese 
people have freely selected their own leaders, practiced the religion 
of their choice, and expressed their thoughts openly and freely. Taiwan 
has become a vibrant and democratic participant in the family of 
nations. The recent election of Mr. Chen Shui-bian as the new president 
of Taiwan should be considered a reaffirmation of their dedication to 
democratic ideals.
  However, despite Taiwan's many accomplishments, significant political 
challenges still remain. With all that the Taiwanese people and 
Taiwanese-Americans have accomplished, there can be no complete 
satisfaction until Taiwan's sovereignty, status and global 
contributions are respected and appreciated. Gaining worldwide 
recognition of the legitimacy of Taiwan's government is paramount. It 
is crucial that the voice of the 22 million people of Taiwan be heard 
in international organizations such as the United Nations, the World 
Health Organization and other international organizations.
  Mr. Speaker, Taiwanese-American Heritage Week recognizes and 
celebrates the longstanding friendship between the United States and 
Taiwan. I hope my colleagues will join with me in commending the 
accomplishments and contributions of the Taiwanese American community.

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