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Statement
on the Taiwanese American Heritage Week
Senator
Robert Torricelli, D-NJ
May
9, 2000
TAIWANESE-AMERICAN
HERITAGE WEEK
Mr.
TORRICELLI. Mr. President, this month I join people
in New Jersey and throughout the nation in celebrating Pacific-American
Heritage Month. The Pacific-American community represents
an important part of America's future and I applaud their
proud celebration of heritage and community.
Taiwanese-American
Heritage Week, from May 7 to May 14, celebrates the unique
and diverse contributions of the more than 500,000 Taiwanese-Americans
in the United States. These Americans have played a significant
role in our nation's life and their countless accomplishments
can be found in every facet of American society. For instance,
Taiwanese-Americans have succeeded as notable artists, Nobel
Laureate scientists, researchers, human rights activists,
and business leaders.
In addition
to recognizing these contributions, this is an excellent
opportunity to celebrate the success of democracy on the
island of Taiwan. Since 1987, the Taiwanese people have
possessed the rights to select their own leaders, practice
the religion of their choice, and express their thoughts
openly and freely. Taiwan is a vibrant and democratic participant
in the family of nations.
The
election on March 18 of opposition leader Chen Shui-bian
as president, and my friend Annette Lu as vice-president,
represents the crowning achievement of the struggle of the
people of Taiwan for full-fledged democracy and freedom.
While Taiwan has established a model democracy, there remain
political challenges. Gaining worldwide recognition of the
legitimacy of Taiwan's government is paramount. With all
that Taiwanese and Taiwanese-Americans have accomplished
there is still more work to be done before Taiwan's status
and global contributions are properly respected and appreciated.
Mr.
President, Taiwanese-American Heritage Week recognizes the
longstanding friendship between the United States and Taiwan.
I commend the great accomplishments and contributions of
the Taiwanese-American community.
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