Bill > SRes129

This Resolution officially recognizes May 2013 as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, highlighting it as a crucial period to celebrate the substantial contributions made by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders throughout United States history. The resolution acknowledges the diverse nature of this community, comprising numerous ethnicities and languages, and notes its rapid population growth and increasing representation in government and the judiciary. It also references historical milestones, such as the arrival of Japanese immigrants and the completion of the transcontinental railroad, which involved significant contributions from Chinese immigrants, and commemorates the repeal of discriminatory laws like the Geary Act and the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which provided reparations to Japanese Americans interned during World War II. The resolution emphasizes that this month serves as an opportunity for all Americans to appreciate the achievements, history, and challenges faced by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, recognizing their role in enriching and strengthening the nation's diversity.