CAPAC Celebrates Korean American Day

Washington, DC – Today, Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements to celebrate Korean American Day, which commemorates the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States.

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:

“Since the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States over a century ago, the Korean American community has made invaluable contributions to our nation. From small business owners to lawyers to military service members and community leaders, Korean Americans embody our rich cultural history as a nation of immigrants and the promise of what makes America great. As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I thank the Korean American community for their contributions in strengthening the vibrancy of our country and wish all who are celebrating a Happy Korean American Day!”

Senator Mazie K. Hirono (HI):

“On this day more than a century ago, the first immigrants from Korea arrived in Honolulu Harbor prepared to start a new life in a new country. Since then, Korean Americans have contributed to the rich fabric of our nation, influencing culture, serving in our Armed Forces, and growing our economy through entrepreneurship. In Hawaii and across the country, we celebrate Korean American history and culture and extend a debt of gratitude and appreciation to the Korean American community.”

Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo (GU), CAPAC Vice Chair:

“Today I join all Americans in celebrating Korean American Day. Since the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States in 1903, Korean Americans have made countless contributions that add to the vibrancy and diversity of communities across our country. In Guam, Korean Americans are business owners, servicemembers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who strengthen our island community. I wish Korean Americans in Guam and throughout our country a Happy Korean American Day.”

Congressman Mike Honda (CA-17), CAPAC Chair Emeritus:

“Today is a day of celebration – not just of the 2 million Korean Americans across this country – it is a celebration for America. 113 years ago, 102 men, women, and children traveled from the Korean Peninsula, and landed in Hawaii. Since their arrival, the Korean American community has enriched and strengthened our nation’s society, culture, armed forces, economy, and arts. From serving in high level posts in our Government, to making strides in entrepreneurship and medicine – Korean Americans continue to leave and indelible mark in our nation’s history and makeup. And so to the Korean Americans across the country, including those in my district – our nation celebrates you.”

Congressman Mark Takano (CA-41), CAPAC Whip:

“America’s strength is derived from the diverse communities of people who call this country home. I am proud to celebrate the impact and contributions of the Korean American community since 1903, when 102 Korean Americans first arrived on US soil. From the arts and entertainment, to science, business and medicine, the Korean American community continues to have a vibrant and important place in our nation, and that will surely continue to be the case for many years to come.”

Congressman Xavier Becerra (CA-34), House Democratic Caucus Chair:

“On Korean American Day, we celebrate the many ways Korean Americans have helped build and strengthen our country. In Los Angeles, it’s easy to see how much the Korean American community and its heritage contribute to the life of our city. I’m proud to represent Koreatown in my district and witness how hardworking families, entrepreneurs, civic and religious leaders play a role in making Los Angeles and America great.”

Congressman Joseph Crowley (NY-14), House Democratic Caucus Vice Chair:

“Korean Americans are an essential part of our neighborhoods, communities, businesses, and houses of worship in New York and across America. A cornerstone of our society, Korean Americans have made major contributions to the American economy, culture and arts, sciences, and more, and our nation is stronger because of it. I’m proud to join my fellow Americans in celebrating this important day.”

Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth (IL-08):

“Korean American Day is an excellent opportunity to recognize the immense contributions Korean Americans have made to our nation over many years. The United States has developed a special relationship with our valued and trusted friend, South Korea, and today is also an opportunity to honor this vital alliance.”

Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13):

“I am honored to celebrate Korean American Day, which marks the arrival of the first Korean immigrants on January 13th, 1903. I am proud to represent California’s 13th district which has a vibrant and thriving Korean American community. This community’s achievements strengthen the East Bay and contribute to the rich, vibrant and diverse tapestry of our community. Happy Korean American Day!”

Congressman Ted Lieu (CA-33):

“Today, we celebrate the 113th anniversary of the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States. Since the early immigration waves at the turn of the 20th Century, Korean Americans have played a profound role in strengthening America’s legacy as a nation of immigrants. Los Angeles county is home to the largest population of Korean Americans in the country, and I am incredibly proud to represent a community in Congress that has done so much to enhance our city’s rich cultural diversity. On this Korean American Day, I look forward to celebrating the Korean American community and the ways it has contributed to the growth and success of our nation.”

Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06):

“On Korean American Day, our nation celebrates a community who has made tremendous contributions to this country. Since 1903 - when the first Korean immigrants arrived in the U.S. - the Korean American population has grown to almost 2 million and have become intricately woven in the fabric our country. Korean Americans have made contributions in all aspects of American life. They are our service members, our doctors, businessmen, teachers, and community leaders. They are our neighbors, and most importantly our friends. For centuries, Korean immigrants and their descendants have helped build America’s prosperity. Their culture enriches our lives in so many ways as they uphold the important values of community, hard work, and family that make America strong. I am proud to be a part of New York State which has the second largest Korean American population in the U.S., and honored to join my colleagues and friends in celebrating all that the Korean Americans have done for our great nation.”

Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03):

“Korean American Day is an opportunity to commemorate the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States. I am proud to represent Virginia’s third congressional district, which has a thriving Korean American community, including Newport News Vice Mayor Rob Coleman who was born in Seoul, South Korea in 1971. Today, we reflect on the many contributions Korean Americans have made to the development and growth of the country.”

Congressman Mark Takai (HI-01):

“A hundred and thirteen years ago, the first Korean immigrants to American lands arrived on the shores of Hawaii. Since then, Korean Americans have enriched our society though their numerous contributions to the arts, business, and our local communities. I am proud to represent one of the most ethnically diverse districts in the nation, which includes many thousands of Koreans Americans who contribute every day to the unique fabric of Oahu and our country.”

Congresswoman Janice Hahn (CA-44):

“I am honored to recognize Korean Americans on the 113th anniversary of their arrival in the United States. Since arriving in the early 1900s, we continue to see the enduring contributions made by Korean Americans to our nation. Korean Americans serve as leaders in our communities, participate in public service, and serve in our military. As the Representative for California’s 44th district, it is an honor to represent a community built on a legacy of Korean American culture and leadership.”

Congressman Alan Lowenthal (CA-47):

“Our unique ethnic heritage and vibrant cultural diversity has always been a key strength of our nation’s rich tapestry. I am proud to represent the thousands of Korean Americans who call California’s 47th Congressional District their home. The bustling and vibrant Korean Business District of Garden Grove embodies the countless civic, economic and cultural contributions Korean Americans have made to communities across our great nation. I am honored to join with all Americans today in recognition and celebration of Korean American Day, our opportunity to celebrate both the rich culture of our Korean American communities and the diversity they bring to our nation.”

Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52):

“As we celebrate Korean American Day I am proud to stand with the more than 20,000 Koreans and Korean Americans who live in San Diego. These men and women are business owners, educators, scientists and civic leaders in neighborhoods across my district, and I applaud their many contributions and rich heritage to our community. As a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I am proud to help represent this growing community in Washington, D.C. and look forward to continuing to work with them to better San Diego.”

Congressman Charles B. Rangel (NY-13):

“As a Korean War veteran, I have a very personal tie to Korea and the Korean people and am especially proud of the Korean American community. Since returning home from my service over six decades ago, I have witnessed the Korean community flourish across the United States and applaud their accomplishments. Today Korean Americans are increasingly playing a vital role in every sector or our society: whether in government, medicine, education, business, or the arts, Korean Americans have excelled and shown that the American Dream is alive. I have greatly cherished my friendship I share with the community and have always been an advocate for issues that concern Korea and Korean Americans. As the honorary chairman the Korean Caucus in Congress and sponsor of bills such as Encouraging peace and reunification on the Korean Peninsula, and Encouraging reunions of divided Korean American families, I will continue to work on strengthening the U.S.-Korean alliance as well as helping to empower the Korean American community. GAM-SA-HAP-NEE-DA.”

Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (CA-46):

“Today on Korean American Day we express our gratitude for the countless contributions of Korean Americans to our country. We celebrate the Koreans who braved the perilous journey to America to create a better life for their families and future generations, who have continued to thrive and prosper in America. We also express our gratitude for Korean War veterans who fought and sacrificed to pursue freedom for the Korean people. U.S.-Korean relations continue to be an indispensable alliance for economic growth and national and global security. Americans are thankful for the lasting partnership between our two great nations and people.”

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09):

“Korean Americans are valued members of our community and enrich the culture of the Pacific Northwest region. As we celebrate Korean American Day, we commemorate the contributions Korean Americans have provided Washington state and our nation. I am honored to serve as the Representative of an incredibly diverse constituency that represents our diverse nation, and I thank all Korean Americans for their work as public servants, business leaders and members of our military.”

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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.