June 11, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. ---- WHITE HOUSE CREATES PRESIDENTIAL ADVISORY COMMISSION ON ASIAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER AMERICANS

      Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that President Clinton recently issued an executive order establishing a White House initiative and advisory commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. The executive order is intended to improve the quality of life for Asian and Pacific Islander Americans through increased participation in federal programs where they have been historically underserved. The Commission will work through the Department of Health and Human Services.

      "I am pleased the President has taken this step in an effort to improve our under-represented segment of America," said Faleomavaega. "This is the first time any administration has taken a step of this magnitude, and I look forward to seeing the improvements which should follow from this initiative."

      "My only disappointment was that there appears to have been a lack of consultation with Hill Congressional leaders prior to the issuance of the executive order, at least with this Member of the Asia Pacific Congressional Caucus. Moreover, I want to be certain that a proportionate number of Pacific Islanders be appointed to serve in the commission, and I would welcome any suggestions and recommendations from our Samoan and Pacific Islander community nationwide for names of individuals who should serve as members of the Commission."

      Faleomavaega urges our Pacific community to write to him or directly to the White House concerning any interested person who wants to serve as a member of the Commission.