[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 15 (Friday, January 24, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E72]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          LUNAR NEW YEAR 2020

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GRACE MENG

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 24, 2020

  Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the cultural and 
historical significance of Lunar New Year in 2020, the Year of the Rat.
  As you may know, Asian Americans are the fastest growing ethnic group 
in the United States. With the continued expansion of Asian diaspora, 
Lunar New Year is now observed by millions of Asian Americans and by 
many non-Asian Americans in the United States. This tradition that 
began in China more than 4,000 years ago, is now widely celebrated 
across the world.
  Lunar New Year, often referred to as Spring Festival in various Asian 
countries, is celebrated with family reunions, community activities and 
cultural performances. This is traditionally a time to wish upon others 
good fortune, health, prosperity, and happiness. Beginning on the 
second new moon following the winter solstice, or the first day of the 
new year according to the lunisolar calendar, Lunar New Year extends 
into the full moon 15 days later. According to the lunisolar calendar, 
the 15th day of the new year is called the Lantern Festival. This year, 
Lunar New Year officially begins on January 25th.
  Lunar New Year is a special time for families to come together and 
celebrate the occasion, which is why, when I was a state legislator, I 
proposed making Lunar New Year a New York City school holiday. I later 
worked with the mayor and successfully established Lunar New Year as an 
official school holiday for all public schools in the city, and this 
year marks the fifth anniversary of this tradition. Students, including 
my two boys, are now able to fully celebrate with their families on 
Lunar New Year without facing any consequences for missing school 
should the holiday fall on a school day. This designation recognizes 
and appreciates the important immigrant story of AAPIs.
  Additionally, as the first Asian American elected to Congress from 
New York, I am proud to introduce today a resolution to recognize the 
significance of this holiday. I am also grateful to the 68 
Representatives who are joining me in introducing this resolution to 
recognize the cultural and historical significance of the holiday in 
2020.
  Madam Speaker, I believe Lunar New Year is not only about recognizing 
the many contributions the Asian American community has made, and 
continues to make, but it is about honoring and acknowledging that our 
nation's strength lies in its diversity. Happy Lunar New Year to 
everyone celebrating in my district in Queens and across the United 
States.

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