In celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month this May, Asian Pacific Americans from across the United States can take pride in reflecting on the many contributions we make to our nation. Demonstrating his strong commitment to diversity and to our community, President George W. Bush has appointed more than 400 Asian Pacific American leaders to the highest levels of government, including two Asian Pacific Americans to serve in his Cabinet at the start of his Administration — a first in our country’s history.
One of America’s great and defining strengths is its ethnic and cultural diversity. Both President Bush and I are deeply committed to ensuring that Asian Pacific Americans continue to have access to opportunities in mainstream America. To better serve the Asian Pacific American communities, the United States Department of Labor’s monthly employment report includes, since 2003, specific data on Asian Americans. As part of the Department’s outreach, significant contributions have been made to the advancement of Asian Pacific Americans through partnerships, targeted compliance assistance, and enhanced enforcement of labor laws, especially those protecting vulnerable immigrants. In the last seven years, over 100 Asian Pacific American student leaders — along with young leaders from all communities — have benefited from the Secretary’s Internship Program. These programs reflect the many ways in which the Department and this Administration remain committed to helping Asian Pacific Americans advance within mainstream America.
As our nation grows and becomes more diverse, we all can play an integral role in building bridges of understanding by promoting people-to-people exchanges between communities and nations. Here at the U.S. Department of Labor, we are committed to providing all Americans with the tools to succeed in the competitive worldwide economy. On May 15, 2008, the U.S. Department of Labor will host the “Seventh Annual Asian Pacific American Federal Career Advancement Summit” to help Asian Pacific Americans acquire the skills to advance within the federal government. In the fall, the Department will host the “Sixth Annual Opportunity Conference,” where federal agencies and non-profit organizations help address the unique needs of the Asian Pacific, Hispanic, and African American communities. Together, we all can continue to help make our country economically vibrant, and contribute to the tremendous cultural diversity that is one of our greatest strengths.
Best wishes for a wonderful Asian Pacific American month!