[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 163 (Saturday, December 17, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2601]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF KOREAN AMERICAN DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. NANCY PELOSI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 13, 2005

  Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, it is with pride that I rise to join my 
colleagues in recognizing the 103rd anniversary of Korean American 
immigration to the United States, and honoring the contributions of the 
Korean American community to our country.
  On January 13, 1903, the S.S. Gaelic docked in Hawaii, carrying with 
it the first wave of immigrants from Korea, and ushering in a new 
chapter in our nation's heritage. These pioneering individuals--56 men, 
21 women, and 25 children--would blaze a trail for more than two 
million Korean American immigrants and their descendents who live 
throughout our nation today.
  Following World War II and the Korean War, a second wave of thousands 
of Korean immigrants came to the United States. Like all immigrants, 
they sacrificed everything they knew to answer the calls of freedom and 
new opportunity, with the hopes of building brighter futures for 
themselves in America.
  Over the course of one hundred years of immigration, Korean Americans 
have worked hard to achieve the American dream through their resolve, 
determination, and an abiding belief in the greatness of this country 
that we love. While well known and celebrated for its entrepreneurial 
spirit, the contributions made by the Korean American community to our 
society extends to all areas of the American fabric and have profoundly 
enriched our national heritage. Korean Americans have broken down 
language and social barriers, and fought back against the obstacles of 
racism and discrimination to succeed in and contribute to all aspects 
of American life--all.
  As Representative of California's 8th Congressional District, it is 
my privilege to represent a diverse Asian American and Pacific Islander 
community, including a vibrant and active Korean American community.
  In marking the 100 year anniversary of Korean American immigration, 
the Centennial Committee on Korean Immigration designated January 13 of 
each year as Korean American Day. By honoring this day, we celebrate 
the extraordinary contributions of this unique community to our 
country, and rededicate ourselves to making the American dream a 
reality for all.
  This legislation has my strong support, and I urge my colleagues to 
join me in honoring this vibrant community.

                          ____________________