We have made history!!!! H. Res. 683 was passed this afternoon under suspension of the rules. Thank you, your members, and friends for your proactive support that made it happen. Rep. Judy Chu and Rep. Lamar Smith, Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, and their staffs worked to hammer out a bipartisan bill. Support from both sides of the aisle and collaboration with organizations comprising the 1882 Project's Steering Committee and Covington and Burling, LLP, community organizations, and dedicated individuals have gained us victory and national visibility. Earning the Congressional expression of regret, synonymous with an apology, from both Houses of Congress is an amazing accomplishment. Thank you all for your diligent efforts!
Fraternally yours,
Carolyn H. Chan
Grand President
Chinese American Citizens Alliance
DECEMBER 7, 2011 - Today our nation observes the 70th anniversary of the attack by Japan on Pearl Harbor, which brought the United States into World War II. We pay tribute to our American citizen soldiers of all ethnicities for their bravery, sacrifice, and loyalty who fought to protect our freedom in that war.
Despite their loyalty being questioned and families separated by placement in internment camps, young Japanese Americans who enlisted in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. They fought in the European theater and became the most highly decorated unit in military history.
To help with the effort, many Chinese Americans either volunteered or were drafted during World II to fight in Europe and support the war efforts in China. We are proud to say that at one time membership of the Chinese American Citizens Alliance was comprised of veterans, like those of World War II.
Our grateful nation expresses our sincerest gratitude to every military veteran and their families for their sacrifice and service as we became a united nation. You are all truly our HEROES!.
Carolyn H. Chan
Grand President
Washington, DC– Chinese American Citizens Alliance applauds the bipartisan introductions of H. Res. 282 and S. Res. 201, expressing regret for the passage of discriminatory laws against the Chinese in America, including the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. The passage of this Act marked the first time in our nation’s history that Congress expressly singled out a group of immigrants for denial of citizenship rights.