    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8508--APR. 29, 2010

    Proclamation 8508 of April 29, 2010
    Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    For centuries, America's story has been tied to the Pacific. Generations
    of brave men and women have crossed this vast ocean, seeking better
    lives and opportunities, and weaving their rich heritage into our
    cultural tapestry. During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage
    Month, we celebrate the immeasurable contributions these diverse peoples
    have made to our Nation.
    Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have shared common struggles
    throughout their histories in America--including efforts to overcome
    racial, social, and religious discrimination. This year marks the 100th
    anniversary of the Angel Island Immigration Station in San Francisco
    Bay, a milestone that reminds us of an unjust time in our history. For
    three decades, immigrants from across the Pacific arrived at Angel
    Island, where they were subject to harsh interrogations and exams, and
    confined in crowded, unsanitary barracks. Many who were not turned back
    by racially prejudiced immigration laws endured hardship, injustice, and
    deplorable conditions as miners, railroad builders, and farm workers.
    Despite these obstacles, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have
    persevered and flourished, achieving success in every sector of American
    life. They stood shoulder to shoulder with their fellow citizens during
    the civil rights movement; they have served proudly in our Armed Forces;
    and they have prospered as leaders in business, academia, and public
    service.
    This month, as we honor all Americans who trace their ancestry to Asia
    and the Pacific Islands, we must acknowledge the challenges they still
    face. Today, many Asian American and Pacific Islander families
    experience unemployment and poverty, as well as significant education
    and health disparities. They are at high risk for diabetes and

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    hepatitis, and the number of diagnoses for HIV/AIDS has increased in
    recent years.
    We must recognize and properly address these critical concerns so all
    Americans can reach their full potential. That is why my Administration
    reestablished both the White House Initiative and the President's
    Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI).
    These partnerships include leaders from across our Government and the
    AAPI community, dedicated to improving the quality of life and
    opportunities for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
    Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are a vast and diverse community,
    some native to the United States, hailing from Hawaii and our Pacific
    Island territories. Others trace their heritage to dozens of countries.
    All are treasured citizens who enrich our Nation in countless ways, and
    help fulfill the promise of the American dream which has drawn so many
    to our shores.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2010, as Asian
    American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans
    to learn more about the history of Asian Americans and Pacific
    Islanders, and to observe this month with appropriate programs and
    activities.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of
    April, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence
    of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
    BARACK OBAMA