[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 53 (Wednesday, April 2, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E648]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER ASSISTANCE TO INDIAN TRIBE MEMBERS, 
                 NATIVE ALASKANS, AND NATIVE HAWAIIANS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. DAVID WU

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 31, 2003

  Mr. WU. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 1166, 
which would amend the Small Business Act to expand and improve the 
assistance provided by Small Business Development Centers to Indian 
tribe members, Native Alaskans, and Native Hawaiians.
  With their native lands taken and having been relocated to the 
confines of reservations, the injustices of the past affect the lives 
of these indigenous peoples today, as many reside in economically 
depressed areas that make it difficult for them to make a sustainable 
living. This bill works to rectify part of this historical legacy, 
helping these communities to help themselves, by requiring small 
business development centers to provide technical assistance to 
businesses in these communities. Economic development and such capacity 
building would thus encourage their communities to grow and prosper.
  All Americans deserve the same opportunity to advance themselves to 
have a better life. Our Congress should support efforts that promote 
the job creation, spur economic growth, and self-sufficiency for all 
Americans. That is why I, as Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific 
American Caucus, strongly support this legislation that would assist 
Native American, Native Alaskan, and Native Hawaiian communities.

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