[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 93 (Wednesday, May 31, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E510]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH SPOTLIGHT: DR. VIJAY 
               G PRABHAKAR'S IMPACT IN CHICAGO AND BEYOND

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 31, 2023

  Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, as we close Asian American and 
Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I rise to celebrate the remarkable 
contributions of Dr. Vijay G Prabhakar, a Chicago-based Asian American 
leader whose dedication to public health, community service, and multi-
ethnic unity has enriched our society. The story of his achievements, 
from the earliest days of his career to the present day, underscores 
his commitment to our community and the global stage.
  As we find ourselves not even midway through the year 2023, I find 
myself standing in awe of the staggering breadth of achievements 
already accrued by Dr. Prabhakar. His illustrious record of 
accomplishments this year alone puts into sharp relief a lifetime's 
work of many, reinforcing the fact that his relentless dedication and 
commitment to service is truly unparalleled.
  Starting the year with strength and vision, on January 4, Dr. 
Prabhakar led the successful launch of the GSA India @75 Expo USA Metro 
Cities Sequel in Washington, D.C. Together with esteemed colleagues 
including Congressman Danny K. Davis, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Delia 
Ramirez, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, and myself, we 
are aiming to strengthen U.S.A.--India relations across six major 
American cities in 2023.
  Later that month, on January 28, I had the privilege to launch the 
Global Eye International Institute of Leadership in New York City. This 
institute, a brainchild of Dr. Prabhakar, offers short term leadership 
courses to ethnic minorities on a broad range of subjects, preparing 
and empowering future minority leaders in America. On the very same 
day, the World Malayalee Council, New York Province recognized Dr. 
Prabhakar's efforts with a Distinguished Leadership Award.
  In a further testament to his tireless dedication to community 
service, Dr. Prabhakar launched the Gandhi King Center for Non-Violence 
in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago on February 1. This 
initiative, aimed at reducing gun violence through grassroots community 
participation, is yet another example of his innovative approach to 
problem-solving.
  March brought a memorable celebration as Dr. Prabhakar organized the 
India Unity Day to commemorate the historic defeat of the Anti-India 
resolution in the City of Chicago.
  His relentless efforts were recognized by the United Punjabi 
Association, USA, which honored him with the Distinguished Community 
Leader Award on April 15.
  In May, Dr. Prabhakar represented our nation as a Special Guest of 
Honor at the dedication of Asia's largest Christian Church in Warangal 
District, India. His dedication to public service extended to the 
sports domain as he met with Mr. Jay Shah, Secretary, Board of Cricket 
Control of India, to discuss the launch of the North American Cricket 
Promotion Council in the U.S.A.
  Most recently, Dr. Prabhakar was chosen as National Chairman of the 
Asian American Restaurants Association. This is yet another testament 
to his remarkable leadership within our Asian American community.
  Mr. Speaker, I remind you that these are just a handful of the 
numerous accomplishments Dr. Prabhakar has achieved in the first few 
months of 2023. I could stand before you for days, recounting the 
breadth and depth of Dr. Prabhakar's work. His unwavering dedication to 
service, community, and global unity is nothing short of inspiring.
  His story, filled with resilience, perseverance, and an unwavering 
commitment to the service of others, stands as a testament to the power 
of hard work and the impact of purposeful leadership. His achievements 
reflect not only his exceptional dedication but also his ceaseless 
drive for the betterment of our communities, both here in the USA and 
abroad.
  Dr. Prabhakar's contributions reach beyond his professional sphere, 
extending to significant social causes and initiatives. His dedication 
to public health, community service, and multi-ethnic unity has 
enriched our society, and his influence continues to inspire countless 
individuals and communities. Dr. Prabhakar's remarkable journey is a 
shining example of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose, and 
when a relentless spirit of service guides every action.
  I would like to express my deepest admiration for Dr. Vijay G 
Prabhakar and his extraordinary contributions. His unwavering 
commitment to improving the lives of others, his tireless advocacy for 
unity and inclusivity, and his ability to lead with compassion and 
integrity make him a true role model for us all.
  As we celebrate the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage 
Month, we celebrate trailblazers like Dr. Prabhakar who serve as 
pillars of our society. It is individuals like him who enrich our 
community and fortify the spirit of unity and diversity in our great 
Nation. I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing and applauding 
the outstanding contributions of Dr. Prabhakar.

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