[Congressional Bills 109th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 280 Engrossed in House (EH)]
In the House of Representatives, U.S.,
May 23, 2005.
Whereas the contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to our Nation have been
historically significant;
Whereas at the direction of Congress in 1978, the President proclaimed the week
of May 4 through 10, 1979, as Asian Pacific American Heritage Week, to
provide the people of the United States with an opportunity to recognize
the achievements, contributions, history, and concerns of Asian Pacific
Americans;
Whereas this seven day period designated Asian Pacific American Heritage Week
intended to mark two historical dates--May 7, 1843, when the first
Japanese immigrants arrived in the United States, and May 10, 1869,
Golden Spike Day, when, with substantial contributions from Chinese
immigrants, the first transcontinental railroad was completed;
Whereas in 1992, Congress by law designated that the month of May be annually
observed as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month;
Whereas according to the U.S. Census Bureau an estimated 14.5 million United
States residents trace their ethnic heritage, in full or in part, to
Asia and the Pacific Islands;
Whereas Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders can list innovative contributions
to all aspects of life in the United States ranging from the first
transcontinental railroad to the Internet;
Whereas in the mid-1700's Filipino sailors formed the first Asian American and
Pacific Islander communities in the bayous of Louisiana;
Whereas Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have added to the vast cultural
wealth of our Nation; and
Whereas more than 300,000 Americans of Asian or Pacific Island heritage have
bravely and honorably served to defend the United States in times of
armed conflict from the Civil War to the present: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
(1) recognizes that the United States draws its strength from its
diversity, including contributions made by Asian Americans and Pacific
Islanders;
(2) recognizes that the Asian American and Pacific Islander
community is a thriving and integral part of American society and
culture;
(3) recognizes the prodigious contributions of Asian Americans and
Pacific Islanders to the United States; and
(4) supports the goals of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
Attest:
Clerk.