Pelosi Statement on Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Statement

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in recognition of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month:

"Asian Pacific Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of the AAPI community and the great diversity of our nation. Americans from Asia and the Pacific Islands have overcome persecution and prejudice to serve as leaders and patriots.

"In recent months, I participated with great pride in ceremonies in Washington and in San Francisco to award the Congressional Gold Medal -- the highest award Congress can bestow -- to the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and the Military Intelligence Service. The cause of these brave patriots was not just the end of fascism, but the end of discrimination: they fought on behalf of the American ideal of equality, which is our heritage and our hope.

"The Affordable Care Act, a landmark accomplishment for Democrats in Congress, continues to provide benefits to the AAPI community, and indeed all Americans. By helping end health disparities and tackling public health concerns like Hepatitis B, this legislation is creating a healthier America.

"In America, the beauty is in the mix. This is demonstrated in the diversity of my district -- the beautiful city of San Francisco -- and from coast to coast. As the fastest-growing population in the U.S., Asian and Pacific Islander Americans will continue to help shape and define our future, and this month in particular we celebrate their rich contributions and vibrant communities."

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