81R28723 CBE-D
By: Button H.R. No. 1759
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Asian/Pacific Americans contribute vitally to
communities across the United States, and the observance of
Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in May 2009 offers a fitting
opportunity to recognize this diverse group of people; and
WHEREAS, In 1990, President George H. W. Bush expanded the
annual celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the U.S. from
the first 10 days of May to the entire month; May was chosen to
commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United
States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the May 10, 1869, anniversary of
the completion of the transcontinental railroad, which was built in
large part by Chinese immigrants; and
WHEREAS, Since the early waves of Asian immigrants in the
19th century, people from throughout the Asian continent and the
Pacific Islands have made the United States their home;
Asian/Pacific Americans number more than 15 million and have
distinguished themselves through their service in the U.S.
military, their business and professional endeavors, their
community involvement, their cultural traditions, and their strong
bonds of family; and
WHEREAS, Asian/Pacific Americans have made a positive and
lasting difference to the Lone Star State and the country as a
whole, and the celebration of Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month
acknowledges and promotes the immeasurable benefits of living in a
truly diverse society; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby recognize May 2009 as Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Month and encourage all citizens to learn more about the
history and achievements of Asian/Pacific Americans.