[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 63 (Friday, May 13, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E969]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

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                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 12, 2005

  Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, the month of May marks Asian 
Pacific American Heritage Month, and I am pleased to recognize the more 
than 172,000 Asian Pacific Americans living in Minnesota. My state is 
home to a vibrant and diverse community, which includes prominent 
elected officials as well as business and civic leaders.
  The fourth congressional district is home to nearly 47,000 Asian 
Pacific Americans and one of the largest Hmong populations in the 
United States. The many thriving businesses on University Avenue in St. 
Paul are a great example of the positive changes and contributions of 
Asian Pacific Americans. Today, the avenue is a vibrant commercial 
corridor largely due to the investment of Hmong, Lao, Cambodian and 
Vietnamese Americans who came as refugees and now own businesses.
  Although the Asian Pacific American community has made great strides, 
obstacles to success remain. I am committed to removing barriers by 
improving access to education, creating jobs and eliminating health 
disparities. By working together to increase opportunities for all, we 
work toward this year's theme, ``Liberty and Freedom for All.''
  As we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we salute the 
pioneers who paved the way and renew our commitment to those who follow 
in their footsteps. I am very proud of the vibrant Asian American and 
Pacific Islander communities in my district, throughout the state of 
Minnesota and across the country.

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