WASHINGTON, DC. - Congressman Charles Rangel today released the following statement marking Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month in May:

"May is a great time to remember and honor the invaluable contributions of Asian American pioneers that paved the road for their future generations to achieve the American Dream. Through strength and determination, the AAPI community has overcome prejudice, oppression and countless barriers to achieve enormous heights in America. They are a shining example of the American spirit that resonates throughout our nation.

From small local corner-stores to many Fortune 500 businesses, Asian Americans have contributed to our nation's prosperity and culture. One such example is my friend and colleague, Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke, with whom I recently traveled to South Korea. Sec. Locke is the first Chinese-American to serve as U.S. Secretary of Commerce and the first to serve as governor in the Continental United States. He is one of three Asian-Americans, besides Energy Secretary Steven Chu and Veterans Secretary Eric Shinseki, on President Obama's cabinet.

In New York City, the Asian American community is becoming more politically active, as evidenced by the city-wide election of Comptroller John Liu, the legislative work of officials like City Council Member Margret Chin or Assembly Member Grace Meng and the work of dozens of other Asian Americans who work across local government. They include people like Chung-Wha Hong, the head of the New York Immigration Coalition, United Neighborhood Houses Director of Policy & Advocacy Anthony Ng, Manhattan Legal Services Litigation Director of Litigation Chaumtoli Huq and National Domestic Workers Alliance Founder Ai-jen Poo. Together, these public servants are actively stepping up to address the needs of diverse and vibrant AAPI community that has increased 32% to one million strong since the last Census. Their growing contributions can be seen daily in my own Northern Manhattan congressional district, especially in East Harlem and Morningside Heights.

The story of the AAPI community is a testament to what is possible in America. I join Asian Americans in celebrating their heritage and resolve to build a better future for themselves, their family and their country."