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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Vice President


For Immediate Release May 24, 1999
                  STATEMENT BY VICE PRESIDENT GORE ON
                 ASIAN/PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

As we stand on the threshold of the 21st century, it is important to recognize the contributions of those who have helped to assure that America will enter the new millennium as a leader. The unique talents and abilities of Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestry have enriched every sector of American life including education, the arts, health care, business, and science and technology. Asian and Pacific Islanders provide our country with key leadership and vision in the areas of civil rights, community service, and public policy.

This month I welcome the opportunity to pay tribute to the Asian Pacific Islander community whose spirit and values has helped to build our nation in spite of hardship and discrimination. This community has made our nation stronger, more diverse and more inclusive. Our Administration has strived to empower the Asian and Pacific Islander community and will continue working on its behalf.

To honor the accomplishments of Asian and Pacific Islanders and to recognize their many contributions to our nation, I am proud to acknowledge that the month of May is "Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month." I hope that all Americans will join me in celebrating a culture that has enriched our past, strengthens our present, and brightens our future.

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