[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 69 (Friday, May 24, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E928-E929]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT T. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 23, 2002

  Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of Asian Pacific 
American Heritage Month. It is my pleasure to acknowledge the 
tremendous achievements and contributions that the Asian Pacific 
American community has made to our society. Asian Pacific American 
(APA) Heritage Month provides us with an opportunity to reflect upon 
the diversity that makes our nation so strong, and the particular 
accomplishments of the APA community.

[[Page E929]]

  I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all those who 
remain dedicated to advancing the goals of the APA community. I commend 
all of the APA organizations across America for enhancing the voice of 
APAs in the political and social arena. Their tireless efforts inspire 
others to achieve their dreams. All Americans, regardless of their 
ethnic background and heritage, benefit from their work.
  This year, many organizations are choosing to celebrate Asian Pacific 
American Heritage Month by focusing on theme, ``Unity in Freedom.'' 
This theme resonates deeply in the wake of September 11th. Following 
the attacks, the APA community has been a leading voice in the fight to 
protect the civil liberties of all Americans, regardless of race, 
ethnicity, or religion. This deep and enduring commitment is a 
testament to the remarkable resilience of APAs throughout American 
history.
  It is quite fitting that our great nation takes the time each year to 
honor the exemplary contributions of APAs. This month allows us a 
moment to reflect on the past successes and struggles of the APA 
community, as well as the promise the future holds. As we examine and 
celebrate the distinct heritage of Asian Pacific Americans, it is 
important to acknowledge that the diverse fabric of our nation is bound 
together by a shared set of values: freedom, liberty, and equal 
opportunity. The APA community has long exemplified these values. It is 
an honor to highlight Asian Pacific American Heritage Month on the 
floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.

                          ____________________