[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 26 (Thursday, February 11, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E125-E126]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          LUNAR NEW YEAR 2021

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GRACE MENG

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 11, 2021

  Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the cultural and 
historical significance of Lunar New Year in 2021, the Year of the Ox. 
This year, Lunar New Year officially begins on February 12th.
  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. Lunar New Year is traditionally a time to wish 
upon others good fortune, health, prosperity, and happiness. It is a 
special time for families to come together and celebrate the occasion 
with community activities and cultural performances. Having lots of 
delicious food is a major part of New Year festivities. A dish my 
family traditionally enjoys is noodle soup, which brings luck for the 
year ahead.
  Of course, this year's celebration is very different from all the 
previous celebrations. Due to the pandemic, there will be less in-
person celebrations--whether with our families or within our 
communities. But I still hope that we

[[Page E126]]

can gather virtually to celebrate some of the traditions.
  Madam Speaker, every year since I have been a member of Congress, I 
have introduced legislation to recognize the significance of Lunar New 
Year. I am proud to be joined by 61 fellow Representatives in today's 
introduction of this resolution to recognize the cultural and 
historical significance of the holiday. I believe Lunar New Year is not 
only about recognizing the many contributions the Asian American 
community has made, and continues to make, but also about honoring and 
acknowledging that our nation's strength lies in its diversity. I wish 
everyone a very Happy Lunar New Year. And Happy Year of the Ox.

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