CAPAC and Congressional Leaders Celebrate Lunar New Year

WASHINGTON, DC – In honor of the Lunar New Year and to welcome in the Year of the Dragon, Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) and Congressional leaders released the following statements:

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-32), CAPAC Chairwoman: “As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I send my warmest greetings and best wishes to everyone celebrating Lunar New Year. I hope the Year of the Dragon brings good health, great fortune and success to you and your families!”

Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi (CA-08), Democratic Leader:  “As Lunar New Year celebrations light up San Francisco’s Chinatown, and festivities inclusive of Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean and Tibetan families welcome this new start, I feel particular pride to represent one of the largest, strongest, and most vibrant AAPI communities in the country in Congress.  From Lunar New Year to Losar and other celebrations, San Franciscans take shared pride in our diversity.

“In the Year of the Dragon, may those celebrating enjoy family togetherness, health, and good fortune.  This year, may all Americans be blessed with success, prosperity, and good luck.  Gung Hay Fat Choy to all!”

Senator Daniel Akaka (HI): “Kung hee fat choy!  Today marks the beginning of the Year of the Dragon, one that is said to bring progress, perseverance, and auspiciousness.  These concepts will be important for Congress to keep in mind as we address issues affecting our nation.  I hope this will be a productive and momentous year for all.”

Congressman Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus:  “On this Lunar New Year we celebrate the Year of the Dragon, a figure symbolizing power, strength and good luck.  In the United States, the Asian Pacific Islander American community has helped shape our country across time.  From helping to build the transcontinental railroad to serving in the military and contributing to the arts and sciences, Asian Pacific Islander Americans make the United States stronger and more powerful.  Today, let us come together and celebrate the Year of the Dragon and take a moment to reflect on the new beginnings this year brings.”

Congressman Mike Honda (CA-15), CAPAC Chair Emeritus: “Today I join the nation in celebrating Lunar New Year, a time when we come together to honor our heritage, reunite with family, and give thanks for our many blessings.  I am proud to represent one of the most diverse Asian American and Pacific Islander districts in the country, as today emphasizes the importance of people of all backgrounds being able to celebrate their cultures, religions, and identities freely.
“Lunar New Year also marks a time to reflect on how we can make our lives better for ourselves and our communities, and to embrace the sense of renewal and reinvigoration that comes along with a new year.  I wish everyone a happy new year filled with peace, love, and prosperity.”

Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono (HI-02), CAPAC Education Taskforce Chair: “The Lunar New Year holds special meaning for the people of Hawaii.  Street fairs, lion dances, and parades fill the month of January, celebrating new beginnings and the hope for a happy and prosperous Year of the Dragon.  The leadership and power of the Dragon mirror our determination to create jobs, increase opportunities, and encourage a strong economy for all American families.  Best wishes to all in the New Year.”

Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-09), CAPAC Healthcare Taskforce Chair:  “As we celebrate the start of the Year of the Dragon, I extend best wishes for health and prosperity.  In this New Year, it is my hope that we can work together to build safe, healthy communities that allow us all to achieve our full potential and secure the future for our children.”

Congressman Eni Faleomavaega (AS), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific:  “I am proud to support Chinese New Year celebrations nationwide and I commend the efforts to preserve this significant tradition as it adds to the cultural richness and diversity of America.   I offer my well wishes to all those who will partake in celebrations to reign in the Chinese Year of the Dragon.”

Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (CNMI): "Congratulations to the Chinese, Korean, and Japanese communities and to all who celebrate the Lunar New Year in the Northern Mariana Islands and throughout our nation. The Year of the Dragon is noted for the attributes of excellence and accomplishment. As we look forward to this coming year, let us all feel the power of the Dragon and be inspired to achieve great things."

Congresswoman Laura Richardson (CA-37): “I am proud to join those celebrating the Lunar New Year.  The Year of the Dragon is a symbol of success and happiness for the upcoming year.  It is my hope that the Year of the Dragon is a blessed year and one filled with health, happiness, and prosperity.”

Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34): “I wish everyone a prosperous, happy and healthy Year of the Dragon. This joyful holiday highlights the rich heritage of Chinese Americans and their contributions to the multicultural community of greater Los Angeles. Gung Hay Fat Choy! Happy New Year!”

Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (CA-47): “I would like to extend my best wishes to those celebrating the Chinese New Year across our nation and around the world,” said Sanchez.  “This New Year is the Year of the Dragon, and the dragon is the ultimate symbol of strength and happiness.   This is a time for all of us to reflect this past year, and look forward to a prosperous year in 2012. I hope this year brings much success to you and your families!”

Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-12):  “Gung Hay Fat Choy! I wish you and your loved ones a prosperous and productive Year of the Dragon! Chinese New Year brings families and friends together to reflect on the past and celebrate new beginnings.  The Lunar New Year is a significant reminder of the richness of the Chinese culture and the importance of diversity in our community. As a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I am proud to recognize the Chinese community and honored to serve one of the most diverse constituencies in the nation.”
 

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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently Chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.