For Immediate Release
June 23, 2010

Contact: Nicole Y. Williams
202-225-2661

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) recognizing the significance of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. Congresswoman Lee hailed the passage of the bill.

“As a long-time supporter of the Caribbean and a frequent visitor to the region, I am very proud to see us celebrate this important commemorative month for the fifth straight year.  Since Congress unanimously passed my resolution in February 2006, the President has issued a proclamation annually recognizing June as Caribbean-American Heritage Month.  This year, President Obama issued a proclamation on May 28.

“People of Caribbean heritage reside in every part of our country. Since before our nation's founding, millions of people have emigrated from the Caribbean to the United States. Throughout U.S. history we have been fortunate to benefit from countless individuals of Caribbean descent who have contributed to American government, politics, business, arts, education, and culture – including one of my personal mentors, the Honorable Shirley Chisholm.

“Caribbean-American Heritage Month reminds us of the large and diverse constituencies of Caribbean-Americans in our nation, and provides us with an opportunity to send a message of good will to the community at home and abroad.

“Additionally, this month also provides us an opportunity to strengthen our long-term partnership with nations of the Caribbean Community.

“From trade, energy and immigration to HIV/AIDS and disaster preparedness, we share a number of mutual policy interests with our Caribbean neighbors.  This month also allows us to continue to shine a light on these issues and to remind us that we must face them together as partners.

“As we celebrate this month, let us continue to honor the contributions of Caribbean-Americans and all peoples of this rich nation of immigrants, and let us recognize that our diversity will forever be the great blessing and strength of our country.”

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