Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Ba Van Le, a pioneer in the Vietnamese American community and a prominent entrepreneur, beloved by family and friends.

Born on December 26, 1932, Ba Van Le was raised in the An Giang Province of Southern Vietnam. In Vietnam, he was a successful businessman who owned a thriving sugar cane refinery in Saigon that earned him the nickname ``The Sugar King.''

Following the Vietnam War, Ba, his wife Hanh and their three oldest children fled Vietnam in search of new beginnings. Like many Vietnamese, Ba and his family settled at a refugee camp in Malaysia. Over a year later, Ba and the rest of the Le family arrived in the United States, staying briefly in Clovis, New Mexico and Monterey, California before settling in San Jose, California.

In 1981, Ba, along with his sons Chieu and Henry, began operating a mobile lunch truck in downtown San Jose. With newfound success, the business expanded to a permanent Vietnamese sandwich shop, becoming the very first store location of what would evolve into the family's chain restaurant, Lee's Sandwiches.

Ba was a prime example of the American entrepreneurial spirit. With the suggestion of his grandson to incorporate business ideas from American fast food chains, Ba and his family expanded their food menu and opened 30 locations in Northern and Southern California, Texas, Arizona, and Oklahoma. With hard work and perseverance, both he and his family have played a major role in popularizing the Vietnamese sandwich, banh mi, and other Vietnamese food in mainstream American food consciousness.

Not only did Ba establish a thriving restaurant specializing in Vietnamese cuisine, he and his family's small business became the first chain restaurant to serve the needs of the Vietnamese American community.

Madam Speaker, Ba Van Le's innovative spirit and cross-cultural achievements will be remembered for years to come. It is my hope that his legacy will inspire fixture generations to find creative ways to serve the needs of the diverse Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the Le Family during this time of remembrance.

Mr. Speaker, as chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I urge my colleagues to support the DREAM Act this week.

Failure to pass the DREAM Act would disproportionately impact the 1.5 million Asian students in our country. Hardworking and high-achieving students like Soo Ji Lim and Steve ``Shing Ma'' Li have overcome numerous barriers in their lives and are now on track to finish college.

These students already contribute to our country, and we owe them a chance at the American Dream. We must act, and we must make the DREAM Act a reality for students like them. It is a good investment. Let's get a return on the investment.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 1055, a bill to grant the Congressional Gold Medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.

The United States will forever be indebted to the Japanese Americans soldiers of the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, for their bravery, valor, and dedication to the country.

Though many of their families were unjustly incarcerated in internment camps after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese Americans still fought to prove their loyalty to the United States of America. More than 20,000 Japanese Americans enlisted in the U.S. Army, approximately 14,000 of whom served in the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. The Japanese American 442nd Regimental Combat Team, including the 100th Infantry Battalion, became the

most decorated unit for its size and length of service in American military history. Among their numerous awards, the Japanese American soldiers of World War II earned 21 Medals of Honor, 52 Distinguished Service Crosses, 559 Silver Stars, 4,000 bronze stars, nine (9) Presidential Unit Citations, and 9,486 Purple Hearts. The 442nd saw the highest percent of casualties of any unit in the Army, earning it the nickname ``Purple Heart Battalion.''

Nisei men fought for the U.S. and its allies across Europe in many key battles. The 442nd waged eight major campaigns in France, Germany, and Italy. Most notably, the 442nd led a heroic drive into enemy lines to free the surviving 211 members of a Texas unit who were trapped by the Germans in the rescue of the Lost Battalion. The governor of Texas would later name them ``Honorary Texans'' for their actions. Additionally, the Japanese American soldiers liberated towns such as Bruyeres, Biffontaine, and Belvedere. They also freed Holocaust victims from one of the Dachau concentration camps in Germany.

Japanese Americans also served with great distinction in the Pacific Theater in the U.S. Army's Military Intelligence Service, MIS. Through their command of the Japanese language, they greatly facilitated Allied war efforts and the MIS is credited with shortening the war in the Pacific by at least two years.

As a Japanese American who spent part of my childhood in Amache internment camp in Colorado, I am humbled by the perseverance of these Nisei soldiers through the difficult struggle against racial prejudices and discrimination that they endured both during and after the war. Having valiantly fought to liberate the world from tyranny and oppression while their own families were imprisoned back home, the 100th Infantry Battalion, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and the Military Intelligence Service are true American heroes. The unrelenting patriotism of these veterans, now in their late 80s and early 90s, paved the way for reconciliation and redress, and the full racial integration of the Armed Forces thereafter.

Once again, Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting S. 1055 to grant the congressional gold medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, in recognition of their patriotism and dedicated service during World War II.

Mr. Speaker, as a returned Peace Corps Volunteer, I rise in support of H.R. 4195, Authorization of the Peace Corps Commemorative Foundation to establish a commemorative work in the District of Columbia and its environs.

I commend Representative Sam Farr and members of the Committee on Natural Resources for the hard work and thoughtful consideration that went into this bill. I am pleased this bill will authorize the Peace Corps Commemorative Foundation to establish a memorial that honors the Peace Corps and the instrumental role it plays in establishing prosperous foreign relation and cross-cultural understandings. Through the selfless service of men and women of this nation as Peace Corps Volunteers, the Corps' mission of world peace and friendship is realized around the world.

Since President John F. Kennedy's call to service, almost 50 years ago, nearly 200,000 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to train local people in technologies and issues including agriculture production, water quality improvement, basic education, AIDS education, information technology, and environmental preservation. With the recent devastations in Haiti and Chile, we are continuously reminded of the significance of community service and inspired by the valuable assistance the Peace Corps provide.

My personal experience as a former Peace Corps Volunteer in El Salvador building schools and health clinics continues to inspire me to actively advocate for the expansion of this worthy and necessary organization. The experience meant much to me and marked the beginning of my lifelong commitment to public service. Most importantly, I returned to the United States with a deeper understanding of humanity and a personal commitment to speak on behalf of the marginalized and powerless.

To that end, alongside of my colleagues, I requested $465 million for FY 2011 Peace Corps fund, allowing the Peace Corps to modernize its systems, optimize the number of Volunteers and staff in existing countries, strengthen recruiting and diversity efforts, continue to expand to new nations, and maximize safety and security training and compliance efforts. Although a lot has been achieved since the Peace Corps' inception, it is currently at half the size it was in 1966. I am greatly encouraged by President Obama's commitment to expand public service by building upon the Peace Corps and creating innovative programs that inspire Americans, from all walks of life, to bear the torch of peace and goodwill.

Again, I congratulate the Committee on Natural Resources and Representative Sam Farr for their work on this bill and I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation to authorize the Peace Corps Commemorative Foundation to establish a commemorative work in the District of Columbia and its environs. In this time of world conflict and economic disparities I find hope in the work of the Peace Corps. Their mission is more vital than ever and my resolve to reinvigorate our Nation's greatest and most cost-efficient diplomatic tool is strengthened. Let us all pay tribute to the hard work, perseverance, determination, compassion, and idealism of the Peace Corps and past and current Peace Corps Volunteers around the world.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my support for H.R. 4347, ``The Department of the Interior Tribal Self-Governance Act.'' This legislation gets us much closer to fulfilling our special nation-to- nation relationship with Native American people and tribes in our country. H.R. 4347 includes critical amendments to the Indian Self- Determination and Education Assistance Act that essentially allow for greater self-governance by Indian tribes; it directs the Secretaries of the Departments of the Interior and Health and Human Services to implement criteria that make it possible for more tribes to learn about and eventually enter into self-governance compacts or agreements to administer whole programs currently performed by the Federal Government. In addition to enhancing their sovereignty, this legislation has the potential to significantly improve the effectiveness of social, education, and health programs because leaders within specific Indian Tribes are often in the best position to determine the needs of their communities. Additionally, as suggested by a 2004 report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), Indian tribes that participated in self-governance agreements often experienced greater growth in employment levels from 1990 to 2000 compared to those that had either lower or no participation in these programs.

I have been an ardent supporter of tribal sovereignty throughout my career as an elected official, and advocated to ensure that the Federal Government is accountable for exercising its full fiduciary responsibility. During my early career as an educator, I traveled through Indian Country doing educational research for Stanford University. Over the past 15 years serving in the California State Assembly and U.S. Congress, I have authored legislation and voted to support measures that respect and protect tribal sovereignty.

As a member of the Congressional Native American Caucus since coming to Congress in 2001, I have been a strong supporter of full respect and recognition of tribal jurisdictions, for the expansion of tribal courts, the protection of Indian water and fishing rights, increased funding for the Bureau of Indian Affairs and key programs serving Indian Country. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have fought to increase funding for vital self-governance programs and funding for programs serving Indian Country.

Once again, Mr. Speaker, I am proud that the House of Representatives has taken a significant step in the right direction!

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the passing of an esteemed leader in the Ethiopian American community and prominent entrepreneur, beloved to family and friends.

Born on March 31, 1962, Mr. Abebaw Merne Feki, affectionately known as ``Muna,'' was raised in the Bole-Kotebe neighborhood of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Following the American dream like many before him, he immigrated to America in 1991. Muna was a small business owner and entrepreneur at heart, buying a 7-Eleven in San Jose, California, which is home to a large Ethiopian community. Muna introduced Ethiopian products to the store, becoming the first ever franchise location to stock such merchandise. Recognizing the needs of the local community, his cultural infusion brought the business great success.

To serve the large Ethiopian community in San Jose, Muna and his wife opened Zeni's Restaurant, offering authentic Ethiopian-style cuisine. Zeni's Restaurant remains immensely popular among both Ethiopians and non-Ethiopians, considered by many to be the best Ethiopian restaurant in the Bay Area.

Not only did Muna establish a flourishing restaurant, he also created a warm and inclusive community environment for people of all backgrounds. Sharing his love of Ethiopian history and culture with all who entered, Muna made Zeni's Restaurant a central gathering point for the Ethiopian community in San Jose. Through such accomplishments he became an ambassador of the Ethiopian community.

As a patron of his restaurant, Muna and I became friends. He spoke of Ethiopian life and culture, and the struggles of Ethiopian and Ethiopian Americans. As a result of his efforts, I was inspired to found and chair the Congressional Caucus on Ethiopia and Ethiopian Americans, which seeks to support and advance the interests of Ethiopian and Ethiopian Americans across our nation.

I stand here today in great thanks for, and in high regard of, Muna's entrepreneurial talents and civic involvement. Muna's legacy will continue to serve generations of Ethiopian Americans. It is my hope that his legacy inspires others to support their own communities and educate others about the diverse history and traditions of their cultures. He will be missed greatly by the Silicon Valley community.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of the late Paul Leo Locatelli, S.J., former President of Santa Clara University, who dedicated his life to a vision of social respect and compassion.

Born to Italian immigrant parents, Paul grew up in Boulder Creek, California, picking walnuts and crushing gapes for the family garden and wine. Paul's experience as a child of immigrants resonates with all of us. Paul's work ethic, focus on family and community, and deep faith are emblematic of immigrant families all across this country.

The first in his family to attend college, Paul matriculated at Santa Clara University, where he went on to serve for over 35 years. Paul earned his bachelor's degree in accounting from SCU, a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Southern California, and a Master of Divinity from the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley in 1974. That same year, Paul was ordained as a priest and began teaching accounting at Santa Clara University. He was a beloved teacher and was voted Outstanding Teacher of the Year. Paul's most prominent role was as President of Santa Clara University, a position he held for 20 years, the longest serving president in the school's history. After leaving the presidency to become Secretary of Higher Education for the Society of Jesus at the Vatican, Paul was named Chancellor of the University in 2009. As a teacher, I can personally attest that there is no greater compliment than being asked to replicate one's work on such a large scale.

As President of Santa Clara University, Paul's persona profoundly affected the curricula of his students, promoting a diverse student body and encouraging his students to understand the world through different perspectives and life experiences. Paul was committed to having graduates of Santa Clara leave the university having excelled in the three C's: competence, conscience, and compassion. Paul's devotion to his students led to the most successful campaign year of Santa Clara University's history, raising the University's endowment by over $600 million during his tenure. Kicking off the campaign, Paul told his students and faculty, ``Ten years from now, because of our high aspirations and this campaign, Santa Clara University will be known around the world for educating moral, responsible, global citizens-- leaders who will change the world by finding better ways to overcome ignorance and prejudice, to alleviate poverty and hunger, and to end divisions that are caused by religion, national origins, or languages.''

The success of the campaign propelled Santa Clara University into the top tier of our Nation's universities. Paul began several initiatives with the new endowment to create the world leaders that he envisioned. First, he focused on students' scholarships, advocating that all students deserve the right to a higher education. Second, he expanded the University's facilities and resources. And third, Paul saw several new programs to fruition.

Paul focused not only on Santa Clara University as an institution, but also on individual students and projects, solidifying a personal feeling of community within the University. In 2007, Paul supported a group of students in an international solar-house competition that was seemingly too massive a project for the small University. The team placed third in the competition, garnering worldwide recognition and introducing a new legacy of solar and renewable projects on campus. After the competition, Paul did not stop in his commitment to the team of students. When they graduated, Paul served on the board of directors for their start-up company Valence Energy, providing mentorship and guidance to the students long after their college days. Paul served on numerous boards, spreading his visionary leadership widely into the community. Among these, he worked with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, Catholic Relief Services, the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, and the Bill Hannon Foundation.

Paul's love and gift of teaching was perhaps only exceeded by the example he set as a humble priest. Throughout his life he remained true to the Jesuit's core principles of faith and not only understood, but lived the movement known as Liberation Theology. At his core, Paul was a Christian. With every inch of his being, he lived the great commandment to ``Love your neighbor as yourself.'' He was selflessly devoted to the mission he vowed to undertake, and died in service to others. Father Paul Locatelli was, simply put, the most Christ-like person that I have come to know.

Paul was one our Valley's most respected leaders of heart and compassion, and a devoted student of history. On the evening of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks, Paul showed courage and wisdom when speaking about the need to guard ourselves against the temptation to turn against those who may look like the terrorists. Drawing on the internment of Japanese Americans after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Paul cautioned, ``Whatever the race or ideology or professed religion of the terrorists who committed these awful actions today, we are called not to yield to stereotyping and scapegoating people who by accident of birth or history may seem to be like the guilty.''

Father Paul Locatelli will be deeply missed by the Santa Clara University family as well as the larger Silicon Valley community. His commitment to competence, conscience, and compassion has made a permanent impact on us all, and his efforts have afforded many students of Santa Clara University opportunities that would have been otherwise unavailable to them. Paul once said, ``. . . we must understand ourselves as citizens of a global community whose decisions shape the world for better or worse.'' There is no doubt that as a direct result of Paul's life, our world has been shaped for the better. My condolences are with the Locatelli family, and he is in my thoughts and prayers. I will miss you, Paul, and I will try to live according to your example.

Mr. Speaker, the High-Performance Building Congressional Caucus Coalition has designated June 13-19 as ``High-Performance Building Week.'' During this week, we are recognizing the importance of energy efficient building design, with the goal of driving our country toward a more sustainable future.

Buildings throughout our nation are responsible for over 39 percent of our annual carbon emissions, and for 12 percent of the potable water consumption as well as over 70 percent of the electricity use in the United States. The dramatic energy consumption of our buildings is damaging in the long run, and it is imperative that we make energy efficiency part and parcel of the building and operations of our places of work and shelter.

As a Californian, I recognize the importance of sound energy policy and environmental protection. California stands as a leader in these fields, having a range of accomplishments related to our environment and energy independence. The city of San Jose has already begun the process of retrofitting and meeting green building standards with its Green Vision program. Universities throughout the state have installed solar systems to power their electricity needs. Students from high schools and universities in my district have formed recycling initiatives, built solar cars and houses for competitions, and held eco-friendly fundraising fashion shows; each of these steps may seem small but is a critical part of a bigger national stride.

The efforts of Californians are echoed by many in the House of Representatives. I was privileged to be a part of establishing the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition in order to deal with problems including that of the built environment. We feel it is essential that the House gives priority to consideration of energy and environmental issues, and applaud resolutions like H. Res. 1407, supporting the ideals of ``High-Performance Building Week,'' which focuses attention on all aspects of high-performance buildings, including the role they play in reducing impact of humans on our climate.

In addition to creating more energy-efficient buildings, we also need to address the efficiency of the electronics inside our homes. Our household electronics consume a massive amount of energy--the power to run them cost Americans $80 billion last year, but that is a small number compared to the projected $200 billion in electricity they will consume by 2030 unless something changes. We need to consider the potential for integrated smart electronics that will both heal the energy wounds we have created as well as provide a cost-effective solution for consumers. In April, I introduced the Smart Electronics Act, H.R. 5070, to help green the electronics industry by providing the private sector with reliable standards and incentives and by educating and empowering consumers to make smarter and more efficient choices-- all of which help cool the planet and keep Silicon Valley innovative.

Once again, Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I commemorate the progress we are making toward a sustainably responsible future. Focusing on creating energy-efficient building envelopes as well as smarter electronics inside homes inspires our communities to work toward the next generation of energy independence and environmental justice.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of an outstanding citizen and community advocate, John Delloro. Delloro was the National President of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA) and spent nearly twenty years of his life devoted to supporting and serving working people. He carried a powerful message with a powerful voice.

As a child, Delloro's mother was a nurse who had to work long hours. He took on additional responsibilities and cared for his brother as his mother worked night shifts every day. He knew firsthand the need for labor rights and drew from his personal experiences to inspire others.

After graduating from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a Bachelors degree in Psychology and Masters in Asian American studies, Delloro began working with the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance. His first labor movement position was organizing hotel workers in Las Vegas, Nevada. From there, he went on to organize clerical and healthcare workers in Los Angeles. John showed that he was capable at not only be an effective organizer, but able to build important coalitions and partnerships.

In 2003, he was promoted to the Southwest Area Manager of SEIU 1000, the largest state workers union in the country at that time, with close to 100,000 members. In 2006, John was hired as the first executive director of the Dolores Huerta Labor Institute, which works to expand labor studies curriculum for over 130,000 students within the Los Angeles Community College District. Delloro believed that it was not enough to only help mobilize workers, but it was also important to teach students the importance of labor rights. Under his leadership, the program grew stronger and expanded to all nine campuses. John continued his role as an educator as an Asian American studies professor at UCLA. There, he motivated and mentored hundreds of students in the ways of advocacy and community organizing.

Delloro also authored Breaking Ground, Breaking Silence: a report from the first National Asian Pacific American Workers' Rights Hearing and was the 2009 recipient of Asian Pacific Americans for Progress Unsung Hero.

As National President of the APALA, Delloro was instrumental in helping to convene the first National Asian Pacific American Workers' Rights Hearing in Washington, DC. This hearing was important to help raise awareness among lawmakers and the public the critical needs of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) laborers.

As Chair of the Congressional Asian American Caucus, I know firsthand the important work that the APALA has done in the community. Delloro has helped APALA raise awareness on AAPI worker's rights issues at the congressional level and nationally by holding several workers' rights hearings. CAPAC and APALA's relationship will continue to strengthen and CAPAC's relationship continues to strengthen as both the caucus and organization moves forward has helped APALA and CAPAC build a stronger relationship.

John Delloro's dedication and commitment runs deep. He was a nationally recognized union leader, teacher, and mentor. His leadership was visionary and will continue to inspire many others to continue this cause.

Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow members to join me in remembering John Delloro. He touched the lives of many and paved the way for many others to rise up. His work toward equality through organizing is an inspiration to us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1322, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Program and recognizing the significant contributions of Albert Einstein Fellows.

For 20 years, Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellows have worked in the Senate and House, and Federal agencies, drafting legislation and creating innovative educational programs and interventions. Einstein Fellows are selected through a highly competitive process from among the best science, technology, engineering, and mathematics teachers in the field, and represent diverse geographic regions, backgrounds and communities.

Over 190 Einstein Fellows have played a critical role in helping to advance the fields of education, science, technology, engineering, mathematics in the United States by applying their classroom experience to shape public policy. Their deep understanding of both science and pedagogy has provided practical insights and ``real world'' perspectives to policy makers and program administrators.

Teachers who are chosen to be Albert Einstein Fellows demonstrate exceptional expertise in teaching in elementary or secondary schools and have an interest and willingness to be involved in public policy. Many are recognized for excellence through the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics or Science Teaching and other prestigious awards. These dedicated teachers interrupt their careers and leave their homes and classrooms behind to spend a school year in a Congressional Office, the Department of Education, the Department of Energy, NASA, NIH, NIST, NOAA, NSF, OSTP, applying their classroom experience to shape public policy while expanding their valuable skills.

The Einstein Fellows, during their service and later upon the continuation of their professional careers, serve as role models and example of dedication and commitment for past, current and future generations of educators and public servants:

I have had the benefit of having Einstein Fellows in my office for the past four years and I can personally attest to the tremendous contributions they have made to science education throughout the nation. For example, Luke Laurie, a middle school science teacher from California, worked on Global Warming Education legislation and an effort to congratulate Vice President Al Gore on his Nobel Prize; Ed Potosnak, a secondary school science teacher from New Jersey, who developed the Enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education Act and the Educational Opportunity and Equity Commission Act; and Eduardo Guevara, a secondary school science teacher from Texas, who is working on the One America, Many Voices Act, which would appropriately compensate Federal workers with multilingual skills, on legislation to establish prizes for educational technology innovation, and on equity in educational opportunities for Bilingual Learners (ELLS).

President Obama himself experienced the benefits of having an Einstein Fellow in his office when he was a freshman Senator.

In conjunction with the 20th Anniversary of the program, on June 28th and 29th the Einstein Fellowship Summit will be held here in Washington, where former and current fellows will address issues related to STEM education. Members have been invited to the Congressional reception to be held at the Rayburn Gold Room, and I encourage my colleagues to attend that event to meet current and former fellows and celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program.

I urge my colleagues to support this resolution and the Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the lives of two young graduate students, Tam Tran and Cinthya Felix, who both died in a tragic car accident on the 25th of May of 2010. They were 27 and 26 years of age, respectively.

Tam Tran was born in Germany to Vietnamese refugee parents and moved to the United States at the age of 6. Denied political asylum in the United States, unable to return to Vietnam for risk of political persecution, and refused entry to Germany, her immigration status was in limbo, but Tran proceeded to excel and graduate from Santiago High school in Garden Grove, California, and be admitted to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). As an undergraduate and vocal supporter of the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act, she joined Improving Dreams, Equality, Access and Success (IDEAS), a student organization that advocates for undocumented immigrant youth and students. Tran shared her story in congressional testimony, newspaper interviews, and events across the country. She eventually produced a collaborative student publication entitled, Underground Undergrads: UCLA Undocumented Immigrant Students Speak Out, an account of the struggle facing undocumented UCLA students and relevant legislation. She went on to become a Ph.D. candidate in American Civilization at Brown University.

Cinthya Felix was born in Mexico and immigrated to the United States at the age of 15. Despite a late start, she eventually graduated from Garfield High School in East Los Angeles at the top of her class and was admitted to UCLA in 2003. As an undocumented student, she conducted research on educational inequalities and was one of the founders of the student run organization IDEAS, where she worked with Tran. She graduated from UCLA in 2007 with a double major in English World Literature and Spanish Literature and was admitted to Masters in Public Health programs at Colombia University and the University of Michigan. Because of her undocumented status, Felix was unable to access financial aid and had to defer her admissions. With much determination, Felix spearheaded an online fundraising campaign and was able to matriculate at Colombia University a year later, becoming the first undocumented student in the history of the school's public health program. Her goal was to pursue medical school and to return home as a practicing physician to help underserved communities.

Over three million students graduate from U.S. high schools every year. Most get the opportunity to continue on and live their American dream, but approximately 65,000 youth are denied this possibility because of their undocumented status. Tran and Felix were both outspoken advocates on this issue. The DREAM act can solve this injustice by allowing qualifying undocumented youth a conditional path to citizenship through the completion of a college degree or military service. As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I recognize the needs of immigrants, especially those that concern our youth, and have long made comprehensive immigration reform one of our caucus' top priorities. Although Tran's and Felix's lives were tragically cut short, let us not forget their mission. Let us continue to work towards making the DREAM act a law.

Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow members to join me in remembering Tam Tran and Cinthya Felix. The adversity they faced and their stories of perseverance in achieving the American dream are an inspiration to every American student who wishes to pursue life's endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize May as World Hepatitis Awareness Month and May 19th as World Hepatitis Day.

I commend the House Energy and Commerce Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee for their support for raising awareness of the risks and consequences of undiagnosed Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C infections and the need for governmental and public health actions. I also want to thank my good friends Rep. Ed Towns and Rep. Bill Cassidy for working with me on hepatitis issues and speaking out on World Hepatitis Day.

An estimated 5.3 million people living in the United States are infected with either Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C. Hepatitis viruses are highly contagious viruses that infect the liver, cause liver disease, liver cancer, and premature death. Hepatitis patients are found in every Congressional district in every state across the U.S. Tragically, more than half are unaware of their status. Hepatitis is often called a silent crisis, but we cannot afford to be silent any more, and we will not be silent any more.

I introduced H.R. 3974, the Viral Hepatitis and Liver Cancer Control and Prevention Act of 2009 to unite the Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C community in a singular cause. H.R. 3974 will amend the Public Health Service Act to make critical improvements for education for patients and health care providers, access to immunization and screening, and surveillance and referral to care programs. The Act will also put in place a coordinated federal response to fight viral hepatitis. Through this legislation, and with strategic investments in public health and prevention programs, the lives of tens of thousands of people across the nation will be improved.

I commend the Obama Administration and Assistant Secretary for Health at the Department of Health and Human Services Dr. Howard Koh for developing an intradepartmental

viral hepatitis working group to improve the public health response to the disease, and for working with outside partners to increase access to quality health care and reduce the health effects from viral hepatitis.

I urge all of my colleagues to support the goals and ideals of World Hepatitis Awareness Month and to support H.R 3974. Through comprehensive education, research, and coordination, we can highlight the global nature of chronic viral hepatitis epidemics, work to improve the quality of life for those diagnosed, and prevent further spread of the disease.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 1258, Supporting the goals and ideals of Mental Health Month.

I commend my good friend Representative Grace Napolitano, sponsor of the resolution, and the House Energy and Commerce Committee for recognizing that mental health and well-being is a critical issue that affects not only the quality of life, health of our communities and our economic stability.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, each year approximately 25% of Americans are impacted by mental health conditions, and no gender, age, race, religion or socioeconomic status is immune. Through the

combination of psychosocial and pharmacological treatments and support, 70% to 90% of individuals with mental health issues experience significant reduction of symptoms and improved quality of life.

As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, CAPAC, also, I recognize that there is a significant need for enhancing awareness of mental illness within the Asian American and Pacific Islander, AAPI, community. AAPIs are among the fastest growing and most diverse racial group in the United States. Despite this, our community's use of mental health services is the lowest among ethnic populations. As such, there is a critical need to raise awareness about mental health within the AAPI community to de-stigmatize seeking help and enhance access to culturally competent community services.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which Congress passed and the President signed into law earlier this year, will greatly expand access to mental health care and additional treatment for millions of uninsured individuals, including AAPIs. In addition, the law supports equity in coverage and will extend the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which prohibits discriminatory limits on mental health and substance use conditions beyond current law to health insurance plans offered to small businesses and individuals. These principles are also reflected in the expansion of Medicaid, which would require those newly eligible to receive mental health and substance use services at parity with other benefits.

I urge all of my colleagues to support the goals and ideals of Mental Health Month. Through education, we can help remove the stigma around mental health and encourage organizations and health practitioners to continue to promote mental well-being and awareness so that people can access appropriate services and support.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to join my colleague Representative Eliot Engel of New York, in congratulating the great people of Argentina in celebration of the bicentennial anniversary of their independence from Spain, which occurred on the 25th of May of 1810.

Born in 1810 out of a newfound sense of national identity, the trajectory of Argentinean independence is inspired by the same enlightenment ideas of self-determination and representative government that inspired America's independence movement. Like George Washington, Jose de San Martin, the liberator of Argentina, led the fight for freedom in armed struggle against the shackles of Spanish rule. At the heart of the U.S. example was the creation a constitution free from monarchy, building an infant democracy surrounded by European power in the new world. Capitalizing on Napoleonic control, Argentina's cry set in motion the wars of independence across South America and the creation of new republics by the decade's end.

America's 200-year relationship with Argentina commenced officially when President James Monroe promulgated a foreign policy based on the preservation of our republics from imperial intervention, thus securing a shared destiny of independence. In an unprecedented gesture of aid to an unrecognized country, President Monroe sent a representative whose primary objective was to assure the Argentinean people that ``U.S. has the most sincere disposition towards its neighbors from Latin America and considers friendly exchanges as mutually beneficial.'' In 1822, the U.S. became the first non-Latin nation to establish formal diplomatic relations with Argentina. Our countries' friendship has been strong ever since.

An entire week of May leading up to the 25th is devoted to celebrating several events that sparked Argentina's movement towards independence, with expatriates and Argentinean-Americans in cities across the United States also partaking in celebrations. Argentineans have a proud history of enriching the world's literary, art and musical, and sports arenas. Tango performers like Carlos Gardel, and writing artists like Jorge Luis Borges, have injected masterpieces into our global tapestry, while one of the most famous soccer magicians Diego Armando Maradona amazed fans during the 1986 World Cup.

It is with great joy, Madam Speaker, that I ask the rest of my colleagues to congratulate our great neighbor on this historic achievement for their people. I wish the President of Argentina and Argentineans across the world a festive week.

Madam Chair, I rise today to support the Repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. During his State of the Union address, President Obama declared that his administration would work with Congress to end the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy of excluding openly lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, LGBT, Americans from serving their country in the armed forces. I have long envisioned our country reaching this moment, and am thrilled that the 111th Congress will soon take another step forward in our long journey toward equality regardless of race, nationality, gender, and sexual orientation.

Reflecting one of our country's last officially sanctioned forms of bigotry, the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy stigmatizes patriotic Americans by excluding them from military life. This policy works to silence LGBT personnel among the ranks of our military, making them invisible to the American public they bravely volunteer to defend. Notwithstanding the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy, countless veterans have served, and countless service members continue to serve selflessly in the defense of our nation. Yet while thousands of our men and women put their lives on the line to protect our freedom and liberty, many are dismissed once their orientation or identification becomes known. According to the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, SLDN, over 1,200 service personnel were unfairly stigmatized when discharged as being unfit for service in 2001. The contributions made by LGBT veterans and those in active duty in an atmosphere hostile to them underscores the tremendous sacrifices they make to serve this nation.

Another reason for the repeal of this government-sanctioned discrimination is the law's disproportionate impact on women and minorities. Servicemembers United compiled Department of Defense (DOD) data showing that in 2008, 45 percent of troops discharged under Don't Ask, Don't tell were minorities, while minorities comprised 30 percent of the service. Similarly, women accounted for 34 percent of the discharges but were only 14 percent of the military. That a discriminatory policy has an even more discriminatory application is another reason to celebrate its abolishment.

When President Obama called for the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, Defense Secretary Gates reminded the Congress of their definitive role in changing the intolerant policy. I am proud that this Congress is acting. While I realize this repeal is still contingent on a completion of the DOD Study and certification from the President, I am confident that Don't Ask, Don't Tell is at its end. I appreciate the difficulty of the DOD's task and I commend their courage to take this step forward for our country. I am proud to cast a vote for repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell--we cannot let the opportunity to right this wrong pass us by.