Meng Speaks on House Floor in Honor of Korean American Day

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) today spoke on the floor of the House in honor of Korean American Day. The following are the remarks she delivered.

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Korean American Day, a day that commemorates the first Korean immigrants to arrive in the United States on January 13, 1903. On that day, the S.S. Gaelic brought 56 men, 21 women, and 25 children across the Pacific Ocean from Korea to America in search of a better future.

“On Korean American Day, our nation celebrates a community who has made tremendous contributions to this country. Since 1903, the Korean American population has grown to almost 2 million and have become intricately woven in the fabric our country. Korean Americans have made contributions in all aspects of American life. They are our service members, our doctors, businessmen, teachers, and community leaders. They are our neighbors, and most importantly our friends.

For centuries, Korean immigrants and their descendants have helped build America’s prosperity. Their culture enriches our lives in so many ways as they uphold the important values of community, hard work, and family that make America strong. I am proud to be a part of New York State, which has the second largest Korean American population in the U.S.

I am honored to join my colleagues and friends in celebrating all that the Korean Americans have done for our great nation. I yield back the balance of my time.”

Video of Congresswoman Meng speaking on the House Floor can be viewed here.