Pelosi Statement on the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on President Bush’s failure to renew Executive Order 13216, which continued the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI):

“As a Member of Congress from San Francisco, I have the privilege of representing a large and strong Asian American and Pacific Islander community. By percentage, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are the country’s fastest growing ethic group, and the community is a vibrant part of our nation. As we say in California, the beauty is in the mix. Our diversity is our strength.

“In June 2003, President Bush undermined the benefits that flow from our diversity when he failed to renew the Executive Order on the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

“The Commission has played a vital role in coordinating federal efforts to improve AAPI participation in government programs. The Commission ensures that federal programs are responsive to the distinct needs of diverse Asian and Pacific Islander communities, advises the President on efforts to improve the quality of life for the community, and increases public and private involvement in improving the health and well-being of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

“By allowing the Commission to lapse, President Bush has signaled that support for Asian American and Pacific Islander issues is not a priority for his Administration. The President should reinstate the Commission and reaffirm our nation’s commitment to this vital group of Americans.”

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