CAPAC Members Commemorate National Immigrant Heritage Month
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) mark the start of National Immigrant Heritage Month, which began on June 1 and has been observed throughout the month of June since 2014 to celebrate immigrants and their contributions to this country. In the United States, approximately two-thirds of Asian Americans and one-sixth of Pacific Islanders are foreign-born.
To commemorate National Immigrant Heritage Month, CAPAC Members issued the following statements:
CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28):
“Immigrant communities, including Asian American and Pacific Islander immigrants, make up the strong, vibrant fabric of our nation. This month and every month, we honor the rich diversity of our immigrant communities—many of whom came in search of a better life and in turn have strengthened our nation in business, civil rights, art, research, sports, public service, and so much more. It is critical that we celebrate the contributions and dedication that immigrant communities bring to our country every day, and recognize that their history is American history. This National Immigrant Heritage Month, we must recommit to educating all Americans about the significance of our communities, protecting our civil rights, and creating a clear pathway to citizenship for all immigrants to our country.”
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44):
“National Immigrant Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and stories that immigrants from across the world bring to our communities. Their resilience, innovation, and contributions are at the heart of our nation's strength and diversity. Today, we celebrate the endless possibilities and dreams that unite us all as one. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus stands alongside the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, the Congressional Black Caucus, and everyone who shares our shared goal of empowering immigrant voices and protecting their rights.”
CAPAC First Vice-Chair Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06):
“I am proud to recognize June as National Immigrant Heritage Month. As the daughter of immigrants, I have witnessed firsthand the strength it takes to leave your home country in search of the American dream. The United States is a great nation because of its rich and diverse immigrant communities. This month and every month, I celebrate the important contributions immigrants have made in my community in Queens, New York, and across the nation.”
CAPAC Whip Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-36):
“I am thrilled to mark National Immigrant Heritage Month and celebrate our nation’s rich diversity. America is a nation of immigrants who have come from far and wide to make a life for themselves in this great country, and this month we celebrate their courage and vision. As an immigrant, I am grateful for the opportunities our country gave to me and am dedicated to preserving the American Dream. I stand with my House Democratic colleagues in calling on Republicans to join us to pass comprehensive immigration policy to move our country forward with justice and compassion”
Rep. Andy Kim (NJ-03):
“My parents came to the U.S. 50 years ago seeking their American dream. Like so many others, they started out knowing no one and built a full life for us. Their story speaks a lot to what our country is about and the promises we make of opportunity, freedom, and acceptance. National Immigrant Heritage Month is a chance to celebrate the diverse cultures and histories that make up our American story. I hope we all can take this chance to reflect on our role to help make sure our country remains a beacon of hope and lives up to its great promises.”
Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13):
“When I first immigrated to this great country from India, I arrived with $20 in my pocket and a desire to pursue the American Dream. During National Immigrant Heritage Month, let's honor all immigrants do to make our country great, and recommit to creating additional pathways for immigrants to contribute to our society and pursue their American Dream.”
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07):
“As we mark the beginning of National Immigrant Heritage Month, we celebrate our country’s history and tradition of welcoming immigrants. Houston is a city of immigrants, from around the world with differing backgrounds, experiences, faiths, and traditions. We celebrate that diversity, and that so many people choose to make Houston home. I join my colleagues in the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus in celebrating and recognizing the contributions immigrants have made and continue to make to our communities and to our country.”
Rep. Rob Menendez (NJ-08):
“As the grandson of immigrants, I am honored to join my CAPAC colleagues in celebrating National Immigrant Heritage Month. I am proud that over 40% of residents of the Eighth Congressional District were born outside of the United States, and I am reminded daily of the invaluable contributions immigrants bring to our community, New Jersey, and our nation. Their resilience and determination in the pursuit of the American Dream have enriched our communities, but this is only possible when America has strong legal pathways for immigrants and helps immigrants participate fully in social, economic, and civic life. And I will always advocate for policies that support and uplift our vibrant immigrant community.”