[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 93 (Tuesday, June 19, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1079]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


 EXPRESSING REGRET FOR PASSAGE OF LAWS ADVERSELY AFFECTING THE CHINESE 
                          IN THE UNITED STATES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                                 oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 18, 2012

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support passage of H. Res. 
683, an overdue and needed resolution that expresses the regret of the 
House for passing laws that targeted Chinese in the United States, 
including the Chinese Exclusion Act. A previous commitment has 
prevented me from being present to vote in support of H. Res. 683 
today, but had been present, I most certainly would have voted for the 
Resolution, adding my voice to the Sense of the House of 
Representatives in expressing regret for the unconscionable Chinese 
Exclusion Act of 1882.
  That Act stands as an example of the intolerance against which 
Americans must constantly fight to achieve the ideals on which our 
nation was founded. We can't ignore our country's history of exclusion 
and discrimination based on identity and country of origin. But today, 
the House's expression of regret for the past and apology to Chinese 
Americans is an important milestone in our nation's ongoing moral 
journey. This resolution, insufficient to repair the historical harm 
caused by such laws, does serve to recognize past wrongs and to remind 
us of our continuing work ensuring inclusion and equality for all.
  While I could not be present to add my solemn support to the votes in 
favor of the resolution, I wish to express my regret for this 
historical legislation. I join my fellow members of the House of 
Representatives in recognition of the immense contribution of Chinese-
Americans to the success of the United States historically and today, 
and affirm my commitment to securing the rights of all who call America 
home.

                          ____________________