Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that President George W. Bush invited him to the White House to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

            “President Bush recently issued a proclamation declaring May 2005 as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month and today he invited Asian and Pacific Islander Members of Congress along with several API community representatives to the White House for a ceremony to celebrate the achievements and contributions Asians and Pacific Islanders have made to the growth and development of our nation,” the Congressman said. 

            “It is always a pleasure for me to participate in this annual White House event as well as other events held around the country each year to recognize our heritage.  Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander descent are among the fastest growing demographic groups in the United States.  We have made tremendous contributions in the areas of science, business and commerce, culinary and cuisine, and sports and entertainment.  Our people are serving in record numbers in the United States Armed Forces and many have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our nation’s greatness and way of life.  All in all, the outstanding contributions by Asians and Pacific Islanders have been crucial to the health and vitality of the United States of America.”

            “As Vice Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) and also as a Pacific Islander Member of Congress, I felt honored and I thank President Bush for inviting me back to the White House for this important ceremony,” the Congressman concluded.

Congressman Faleomavaega and Fono Members (l-r) Olo Robert A. Tagovailoa and Alexander E. Jennings outside of the White House on their way to the White House ceremony celebrating the API Heritage Month.  Also pictured is Junior Seau (2^nd from left), Perenial All Pro NFL star currently with the Miami Dolphins who was awarded by President Bush the President’s Volunteer of the Year award during the ceremony.