[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 10996]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




        IN RECOGNITION OF ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 20, 2004

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge May as Asian Pacific 
American Heritage Month, an important month in the Asian Pacific 
American community. Asian Pacific American Heritage Month commemorates 
the tremendous impact that the Asian culture has made on our Nation. 
Just as importantly it is a month that deserves more recognition than 
it usually receives, as it is often overshadowed.
  It is very important that this month we pay homage to the Asian 
Pacific American contribution to the American culture and experience. 
Through the centuries they have embodied the American spirit and 
fostered the concept of community. Their adaptation to the Americas and 
resilience is something that we should all aim to emulate.
  Asian Pacific American's have long served an intricate role in the 
development of the Americas. From the development of the 
transcontinental railroad to present day the Asian Pacific American 
community has and continues to make their presence evident in the 
medical field, arts, politics, science and engineering, entertainment, 
culinary arts, and military excellence.
  It is important that not just during this month, but may we always 
recognize and continue to embrace the Asian Pacific American 
contribution to our culture. As a nation I hope that we will continue 
to all work and grow together. Today Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge 
the Asian Pacific American contribution and commemorate Asian Pacific 
American Heritage Month.

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