Declares January 13 of each year as Korean American Day in New Jersey.
The resolution seeks to recognize the significant contributions of Korean Americans to the economic vitality of the United States and the global marketplace. It acknowledges the achievements of Korean Americans across various fields, including engineering, architecture, medicine, arts, and military service. With over 168,000 residents in New Jersey of Korean descent, this resolution aims to honor their impact on the state's cultural landscape and societal development.
AJR218 is a Joint Resolution introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, which declares January 13 of each year as 'Korean American Day' in the state. This resolution commemorates the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States on January 13, 1903, who faced numerous challenges, including social and economic barriers, as well as language difficulties. The resolution highlights the resilience and contributions of these early immigrants, laying the groundwork for future generations of Korean Americans.
While AJR218 is largely a celebratory resolution, it underscores the importance of recognizing diverse cultural histories within the state. It aligns New Jersey with federal efforts to celebrate Korean American Day, encouraged by past proclamations from prominent political figures, including President George W. Bush. However, discussions surrounding similar resolutions often involve considerations of how cultural commemorations can influence perceptions of immigration and diversity in the state.