Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
Wednesday, May 11, 2005

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) submitted the following statement for the Congressional Record in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month:

"The month of May marks Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, and I am pleased to recognize the more than 172,000 Asian Pacific Americans living in Minnesota. My state is home to a vibrant and diverse community, which includes prominent elected officials as well as business and civic leaders.

The fourth congressional district is home to nearly 47,000 Asian Pacific Americans and one of the largest Hmong populations in the United States. The many thriving businesses on University Avenue in St. Paul are a great example of the positive changes and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans. Today, the avenue is a vibrant commercial corridor largely due to the investment of Hmong, Lao, Cambodian and Vietnamese Americans who came as refugees and now own businesses.

Although the Asian Pacific American community has made great strides, obstacles to success remain. I am committed to removing barriers by improving access to education, creating jobs and eliminating health disparities. By working together to increase opportunities for all, we work toward this year's theme, 'Liberty and Freedom for All.'

As we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we salute the pioneers who paved the way and renew our commitment to those who follow in their footsteps. I am very proud of the vibrant Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in my district, throughout the state of Minnesota and across the country."

http://mccollum.house.gov/index.asp?Type=B_PR&SEC={F48C5ABB-F54E-4941-A054-09B0424987DC}&DE={777044F2-9F53-4181-BD70-D375DAEBA0B6}