United States Senate honors Lunar New Year

The United States Senate has unanimously approved a resolution recognizing the cultural and historical significance of the Lunar New Year, which begins Thursday, to the Asian American community. U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced the resolution with Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kirk (R-Ill.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), and Harry Reid (D-Nev.).

In the resolution, the Senate expressed "its deepest respect for Asian Americans and all individuals throughout the world who celebrate this significant occasion," and wished "Asian Americans and all individuals who observe this holiday a happy and prosperous new year."

"We at the Chinese American Community Center of Delaware appreciate Senator Coons' effort to introduce this Lunar New Year Resolution in the Senate," Floyd F-L Ho, Ph.D., Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chinese American Community Center of Delaware said. "We sincerely support his resolution as well as efforts to improve the understanding and cooperation between citizens of China and the United States of America."

The resolution was endorsed by the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum; Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in Historic Preservation; Asian Pacific Partners for Empowerment, Advocacy and Leadership (APPEAL); Asian American Psychological Association; APIASF; Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations; Boat People SOS; Japanese American Citizens League; NAPAFASA; National Association of Asian American Professionals; National Korean American Service and Education Consortium; OCA -- Asian Pacific American Advocates; South Asian Americans Leading Together; Southeast Asia Resource Action Center; The Center for APA Women.

"The Lunar New Year is a cornerstone cultural celebration for many different Asian American ethnic groups that occurs between late January and mid-April," the groups wrote in support of the resolution. "It is a time to unify family, celebrate one's cultural heritage and past, and welcome new opportunities. By adopting a resolution to officially recognize this important holiday, the United States Senate would further weave Asian Americans into the fabric of our country."

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