Ask the Scholar
Document scope · 1 page
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory.
For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.
Scholar Source Context
Document identity
localId
323150459
label
Asian-Pacific Heritage Week, 5/8/89
core
doc
dtoType
document
citationUrl
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
323150459
contentType
document
title
Asian-Pacific Heritage Week, 5/8/89
citationUrl
identifierLocal
13486-003
collections
Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Draft Files
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
323150459
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
4f27a0c646fdffc0
ocrText
Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
2011-2184-F
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13486
Folder ID Number:
13486-003
Folder Title:
Asian-Pacific Heritage Week, 5/8/89
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
15
7
2
Rett
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 5, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
CURT SMITH is
THROUGH: CHRISS WINSTON cw
RE:
ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK REMARKS
I. SUMMARY
At 10:15 a.m. Monday, May 8, you will address over 200
hundred Asian-Americans in the Rose Garden. There, you will sign
a proclamation naming this Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.
II. DISCUSSION
The enclosed remarks focus on the contributions of
Asian/Pacific Americans to this country's quality of life. In
particular, they discuss the values which distinguish the
Asian/Pacific community.
You will find two bracketed paragraphs at the end of the
speech. We are awaiting the approval from Boyden Gray's office
in order to use these comments. If they are approved, we will
insert them into the text.
(Smith/Wallace)
May 5, 1989
Draft Four
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Asian proverb says, "Intelligence consists
in recognizing opportunity." Well, if that's true, it's clear
that you may be one of the most intelligent groups I have
welcomed to the White House! For you have recognized
opportunity, and seized it. And I am delighted to be with you.
We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the granddaughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad; Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation; and Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
O
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of refugees and immigrants from
Asia and the Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our
shores. And to salute a community which has enriched America's
community -- socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
o The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we get his
attention?" (PAUSE))
O Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "get attention."
But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, let
me observe that you have chosen another way. You've done it
through excellence, with the value of your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. or Sichan Siv
of our own White House staff.
O My friends, they -- you -- are building a better America.
And creating new jobs. You're enhancing our medical schools, the
law, our small and large businesses. In short, honoring your
heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
o
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the nondenominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Doro was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
o
Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O
God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
[[0 Finally, before I sign the proclamation declaring this
week as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, it gives me great
pleasure to announce two nominations that I will submit to the
Senate for confirmation to positions within my administration. ]]
[[0 I will be sending the name of Julia Chang Block to the
Senate to be the next United States Ambassador to Nepal and the
name of Kyo Jhin (Kee-o Gin) to be the Chief Counsel for advocacy
in the Small Business Administration. I look forward to having
both of these qualified, capable individuals join our team. ]]
To
Date 5/5
Time 11:40
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
M
Studdert's ofc.
of
Phone
Area Code
Number
Extension
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
RETURNED YOUR CALL
Message
N/C on
SB person
Asian /Pacific
Operator S
AMPAD
EFFICIENCY@
23-020
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 5, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
CURT SMITH
is
THROUGH: CHRISS WINSTON cw
RE:
ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK REMARKS
I. SUMMARY
At 10:15 a.m. Monday, May 8, you will address over 200
hundred Asian-Americans in the Rose Garden. There, you will sign
a proclamation naming this Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.
II. DISCUSSION
The enclosed remarks focus on the contributions of
Asian/Pacific Americans to this country's quality of life. In
particular, they discuss the values which distinguish the
Asian/Pacific community.
You will find two bracketed paragraphs at the end of the
speech. We are awaiting the approval from Boyden Gray's office
in order to use these comments. If they are approved, we will
insert them into the text.
(Smith/Wallace)
May 5, 1989
Draft Four
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Asian proverb says, "Intelligence consists
in recognizing opportunity." Well, if that's true, it's clear
that you may be one of the most intelligent groups I have
welcomed to the White House! For you have recognized
opportunity, and seized it. And I am delighted to be with you.
O We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the granddaughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad; Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation; and Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
O
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of refugees and immigrants from
Asia and the Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our
shores. And to salute a community which has enriched America's
community -- socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
O The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we get his
attention?" ((PAUSE))
O Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "get attention." "
But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, let
me observe that you have chosen another way. You've done it
through excellence, with the value of your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our own White House staff.
O My friends, they -- you -- are building a better America.
And creating new jobs. You're enhancing our medical schools, the
law, our small and large businesses. In short, honoring your
heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
o
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the nondenominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Doro was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
o
Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
[[0 Finally, before I sign the proclamation declaring this
week as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, it gives me great
pleasure to announce two nominations that I will submit to the
Senate for confirmation to positions within my administration. ]]
[[0 I will be sending the name of Julia Chang Block to the
Senate to be the next United States Ambassador to Nepal and the
name of Kyo Jhin (Kee-o Gin) to be the Chief Counsel for advocacy
in the Small Business Administration. I look forward to having
both of these qualified, capable individuals join our team. ]]
REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
10:15 A.M.
o
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, MY FELLOW AMERICANS.
0
You KNOW, AN ASIAN PROVERB SAYS, "INTELLIGENCE
CONSISTS IN RECOGNIZING OPPORTUNITY." WELL, IF THAT'S
TRUE, IT'S CLEAR THAT YOU MAY BE ONE OF THE MOST
INTELLIGENT GROUPS I HAVE WELCOMED TO THE WHITE HOUSE!
FOR YOU HAVE RECOGNIZED OPPORTUNITY, AND SEIZED IT.
AND I AM DELIGHTED TO BE WITH YOU.
- 2 -
0 WE GATHER TODAY IN A SPECIAL WEEK --
ASIAN/PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK. YESTERDAY MARKED
THE 146TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DAY THE FIRST JAPANESE
IMMIGRATED TO AMERICA. AND WEDNESDAY CELEBRATES THE
120TH BIRTHDAY OF AN EVENT CHINESE-AMERICANS MADE
POSSIBLE -- THE DRIVING OF THE GOLDEN SPIKE TO COMPLETE
THE FIRST TRANSCONTINENTAL RAILROAD.
- 3 -
0 WE MEET, Too, AS SPECIAL FRIENDS. AND, IN
PARTICULAR, I WANT TO THANK THREE PEOPLE. JEANIE JEW,
WHO CREATED THE IDEA FOR THIS WEEK AND IS THE
GRANDDAUGHTER OF A CHINESE PIONEER WHO HELPED BUILD
THAT RAILROAD; FRANK HORTON, THE CHIEF SPONSOR OF THE
HERITAGE WEEK LEGISLATION; AND RUBY Moy, CHAIRMAN OF
THE CONGRESSIONAL ASIAN/PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK
CAUCUS.
- 4 -
0 PERHAPS MOST OF ALL, WE ASSEMBLE HERE FOR A
SPECIAL REASON: To SALUTE THE MILLIONS OF REFUGEES AND
IMMIGRANTS FROM ASIA AND THE PACIFIC WHO BRAVED THE
UNKNOWN AND VENTURED TO OUR SHORES. AND TO SALUTE A
COMMUNITY WHICH HAS ENRICHED AMERICA'S COMMUNITY --
SOCIALLY, CULTURALLY, ECONOMICALLY, SPIRITUALLY.
- 5 -
0
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, AS WE PROCLAIM THIS
ASIAN/PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK, LET ME OBSERVE
THAT YOU HAVE EARNED THIS RECOGNITION. You've DONE IT
THROUGH EXCELLENCE, WITH THE VALUE OF YOUR LIVES.
- 6 -
0 THOSE VALUES ARE, OF COURSE, DISCIPLINE AND
SELF-SACRIFICE. HUMILITY AND COMPASSION. AN ABIDING
BELIEF IN WORK. A SOARING LOVE OF FREEDOM. VALUES
WHICH BROUGHT YOUR PARENTS, YOUR GRANDPARENTS, AND SOME
OF YOU To AMERICA. VALUES WHICH ARE NOW UPLIFTING
AMERICA.
- 8 -
0 MY FRIENDS, THEY -- YOU -- ARE BUILDING A BETTER
AMERICA. AND CREATING NEW JOBS. You're ENHANCING OUR
MEDICAL SCHOOLS, THE LAW, OUR SMALL AND LARGE
BUSINESSES. IN SHORT, HONORING YOUR HERITAGE BY THE
LIVES YOU LEAD.
- 9 -
0 FOR THAT, I CONGRATULATE YOU. AND, IN A
PERSONAL SENSE, I WANT To THANK YOU, TOO. FOR AS CHIEF
OF THE U.S. LIAISON OFFICE IN CHINA, I CAME, WITH
BARBARA, TO LOVE THAT HERITAGE. AND IN COUNTLESS
WAYS -- WITH COUNTLESS FRIENDS -- To SEE, AND SHARE,
WHAT LIES AT ITS CENTER: THE FAMILY.
- 10 -
0
TEN WEEKS AGO, ON A TRIP TO THE PACIFIC RIM,
BARBARA AND I VISITED THE NONDENOMINATIONAL CHURCH WE'D
ATTENDED IN BEIJING. IT'S DIFFERENT NOW, BIGGER. BUT
THE VALUES -- THE HERITAGE -- ARE THE SAME. AND THE
MEMORIES ARE EVEN BETTER. I'LL NEVER FORGET WHEN OUR
DAUGHTER DOROTHY WAS BAPTIZED THERE IN CHINA.
- 11 -
0 YES, THE ASIAN/PACIFIC COMMUNITY HAS A SPECIAL
PLACE IN MY HEART. AND so DOES AN OLD CHINESE PROVERB
WHICH I HAVE OFTEN CITED. IT GOES, "ONE GENERATION
PLANTS THE TREES; ANOTHER GETS THE SHADE. "
0 FOR DECADES, ASIAN-AMERICANS HAVE PLANTED THE
TREES OF PROSPERITY, OPPORTUNITY, AND HUMAN DIGNITY.
AND IN COMING YEARS, MORE THAN EVER, I KNOW THAT MY
- 12 -
CHILDREN -- AMERICA'S CHILDREN -- WILL THANK YOU FOR
THE SHADE.
0 FINALLY, BEFORE I SIGN THE PROCLAMATION
DECLARING THIS WEEK AS ASIAN/PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE
WEEK, IT GIVES ME GREAT PLEASURE TO ANNOUNCE TWO
NOMINATIONS THAT I WILL SUBMIT TO THE SENATE FOR
CONFIRMATION TO POSITIONS WITHIN MY ADMINISTRATION.
- 13 -
0 I WILL BE SENDING THE NAME OF JULIA CHANG BLOCH
To THE SENATE TO BE THE NEXT UNITED STATES AMBASSADOR
To NEPAL AND THE NAME OF KYo JHIN (KEE-o GIN) TO BE THE
CHIEF COUNSEL FOR ADVOCACY IN THE SMALL BUSINESS
ADMINISTRATION. I LOOK FORWARD To HAVING BOTH OF THESE
QUALIFIED, CAPABLE INDIVIDUALS JOIN OUR TEAM.
0 GOD BLESS YOU, THANK YOU FOR COMING HERE, AND
GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
# # # #
Document No. 033370SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
RESPONSE:
see
real sur
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Wallace)
1939 MAY THE 2:00
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
O
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
O You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and 'tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
worth a thousand times that total.
o We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand-daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation. And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
o Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
O The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract
attention?"
o Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention.' But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
o I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
O My friends, he -- you -- came to find a better life. And
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you're building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
he was he was
not this-
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
O Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 5, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Asian/Pacific Heritage
Week
The draft is well written and appropriate for the Rose
Garden ceremony. We have no suggested changes from a policy
standpoint and approve of the draft in its present form.
CC: James W. Cicconi
Document No. 033370SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Wallace)
ISSS MAY 4 PH 20
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and 'tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
worth a thousand times that total.
o We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
o We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand-daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation. And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O
Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
o The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract
attention?"
o Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention." But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
o I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
o In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
O My friends, he -- you -- came to find a better life. And
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you're building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
O
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non-denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
Document No. 033370SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
RESPONSE:
Lehmann hi
No commont
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 5, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON/CURT SMITH
FROM:
SICHAN SIV
it
SUBJECT:
Suggested insert for Asian Week remarks
Immediately before last paragraph which begins, "God bless
please insert:
O Finally, before I sign the proclamation declaring this
week as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, it gives me great
pleasure to announce two nominations that I will submit to the
Senate for confirmation to positions within my administration.
O I will be sending the name of Julia Chang Block to the
Senate to be the next United States Ambassador to Nepal and the
name of Kyo Jhin (Kee-o Gin) to be the Chief Counsel for Advocacy
in the Small Business Administration. I look forward to having
both of these qualified, capable individuals join our team.
O Resume original text.
Ross Starek from Presidential Personnel called with the above
information.
(Smith/Wallace)
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
O Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
O You know, an Oriental Asian proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and 'tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
worth a thousand times that total.
O We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand-daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation. And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
O
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
refugee and
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
O The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract
attention?"
O Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention." But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
admostof
Native
Americans?
O My friends, he
--
you
--
came to find a better life. And
mm
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you're building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
O Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non-denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And SO does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
INSERT
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
one of the
is clear that
o
You know, an Asian proverb, says,
"Intelligence consists in
recognizing opportunity. " Well, if that is true, let me observe this yours
may be the most intelligent groups I have welcomed to the White House! For you have
recognized opportunity, and seized. And I am delighted to be with you.
it.
(Smith/Wallace)
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
O
You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace and tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
worth a thousand times that total.
O We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
the
valiana
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
endured much to make
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand-daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation. And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
O
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
o The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract
attention?"
O Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention. But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
O My friends, he -- you -- came to find a better life. And
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you're building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
O
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non-denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And SO does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
#
#
#
#
Document No. 033370SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT n/c
BATES N/C per plune
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Wallace)
1333 2
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
Asian Chancel Rnk
You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
cannot be
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
worth a thousand times that total.
measured in gotat. Pink
?
change wording D²
bliz
too exagerating, not cred ble
We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
Darman
this week and is the grand daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad: 2 Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation; D2 And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
efugees and)
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
O The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract
" How do we Get his attention? Pink
attention?" " PAUSE
?
"get attention".
O Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
Pink
attention." But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
o I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher own D2 of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
Delete
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
D2
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
My friends they -- you
they you
are building a
O
My friends, he you came to find a better life. And
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you re building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
You're enhancing
"
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
O Ten weeks Darman ago on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non-denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
Document No. 033370SS
3332
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
TO: CHRISS WINSTON
May 5, 1989
The NSC concurs in the attached statement.
Brent Retur Scowcroft
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
CC: Jim Cicconi
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Wallace)
1230 MAY
T::
2:
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and 'tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
worth a thousand times that total.
O We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand-daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation. And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
o Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
o The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract
attention?"
o Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention.' But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
O My friends, he -- you -- came to find a better life. And
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you're building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
o For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
o
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non-denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And SO does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 4, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
PATRICIA MACK BRYAN PUB
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Asian/Pacific Heritage Week
Pursuant to James W. Cicconi's staffing memorandum of May 4,
1989, Counsel's Office has reviewed the above-referenced
Presidential remarks. While we have no legal objection to these
remarks, we do have the following two comments.
Page 1, Bullet 2: While we defer to your judgment, we find the
connection between the proverb and the President's pleasure in
welcoming the participants to the Rose Garden event to be so
tenuous as to make this bullet confusing.
Page 2, Bullets 2, 3, 4: We are somewhat concerned that these
three bullets together may be misconstrued in such a way that it
may appear that the President is stereotyping all Asian/Pacific
Americans as "quiet, introverts." Again, we ultimately defer to
your judgment on this matter.
CC: James W. Cicconi
(Smith/Wallace)
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and 'tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
worth a thousand times that total.
We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand-daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation. And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O
Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract
attention?"
Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention." But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
O My friends, he -- you -- came to find a better life. And
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you're building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
o For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends --- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non-denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O
Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
#
#
#
#
Document No. 033370SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
All comments
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Wallace)
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and 'tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold. "
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
the worth a thousand times that total.
not
credible
We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation, And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
O The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in à loud voice: "How do we attract
attention?" [PAUSE]
O Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention." But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
own
of our White House staff.
n
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
o My friends, he they they - ther you came to find a better life. And
you
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you' re building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
O
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non-denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
)
daughter Dor was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
Document No. 033370SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See changes
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Wallace)
1233
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and 'tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
worth a thousand times that total.
O We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible - the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation. And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
O
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
o Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
O The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract
attention?"
o Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention." But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
o I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
O My friends, he -- you -- came to find a better life. And
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you're building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
O
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non/denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
V
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
o Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # # #
Document No.
033370SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
RESPONSE: GBW
5/5
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 4, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER PORTER
RP
BILL ROPER
BR
JIM PINKERTON
OF
SUBJECT:
Asian/Pacific Heritage Week, Small Business Speech
Drafts
Asian/Pacific Heritage Week Speech Draft
Pg. 1, Bullet 2, line 1 It is an Asian proverb, or (if correct),
a Chinese proverb, not "Oriental" -- an adjective which has
become offensive.
1,2,4
The President is saying here that he values his
pleasure in welcoming the group to the White House "a thousand
times" the value that the proverb places on peace and
tranquillity. Since that is over-generous, we suggest that he
simply say that his pleasure in welcoming the group "cannot be
measured in gold. "
2,3,2 While, we really don't like the "Ugly American" tone of
the joke, at a minimum, we suggest one change:
Instead of "How do we attract attention?" we suggest "How do
we get their attention," since that is the usual idiom to
describe getting a waiter. Thus, the next bullet would change
to "Ladies and Gentlemen, that's one way to 'get attention.
Small Business Person of the Year
1,3,4
"These are words a small businessman can live by."
The joke is good, but, strictly speaking, since the saying is
meant ironically, these are words a small businessperson can
"understand" rather than live by. Note that it should be
"businessperson" rather that "businessman."
#
Document No. 033370SS
AL
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/4/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 5/5/89 9:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 9:00 AM, Friday, May 5, 1989, with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Wallace)
1933 2
May 4, 1989
Draft Three
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Oriental proverb says, "The two words,
'peace' and 'tranquility,' are worth a thousand pieces of gold."
1000
Well, my pleasure in welcoming you to the White House would be
Tines
worth a thousand times that total.
Man
brong
O We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the grand-daughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad. Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation. And Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
2
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of immigrants from Asia and the
Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores. And
to salute a community which has enriched America's community --
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
O Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
O The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we attract get their
attention?"
get
O Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "attract
attention." But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, let me observe that you have chosen another way.
You've done it quietly, through excellence, with the values of
your lives.
O Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
3
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. Or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. Or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. Or Sichan Siv
of our White House staff.
O In 1976, Sichan escaped from Cambodia, spent three months
in a refugee camp in Thailand, and finally made his way to the
United States. Since then, to quote his words, "I have
experienced the real values of freedom, peace, prosperity,
independence, and democracy. The correct spelling of these words
is A-M-E-R-I-C-A."
O My friends, he -- you -- came to find a better life. And
you're finding it. You came to build a better America. And
you're building it. Creating new jobs. Enhancing our medical
schools, the law, our small and large businesses. In short,
honoring your heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
4
O
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the non-denominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Dora was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And SO does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ASIAN/PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK, 1989
PROCLAMATION SIGNING CEREMONY
DATE:
May 8, 1989
TIME:
10:15 a.m.
LOCATION:
Rose Garden
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR
COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
SICHAN SIV Archan
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR PUBLIC LIAISON
I. PURPOSE:
To emphasize the President's support for the Asian American
community by recognizing their accomplishments and
contributions to our society.
II. BACKGROUND:
Each year since 1979 the President has signed a proclamation
for Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. Asian Americans
are coming to Washington, D.C. from around the country to
participate in several events related to this week.
III. PARTICIPANTS:
The President
Dais participants:
Anna Chennault, Chairman
National Republican Heritage Groups (Nationalities) Council
Cindy Daub, National Director
Asian Americans for Bush/Quayle '88
John Tsu, Chairman
National Republican Asian Assembly
Vicletta de la Pena, National Chair
Asian American Voters Coalition
Elaine Chao, Deputy Secretary
U. S. Department of Transportation
Wendy Gramm, Chairman
Commodity Futures Trading Commission
Joy Cherian, Commissioner
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Members of Congress
200 Asian American leaders
Asian American White House Staff (see attached list)
Asian list) American Senior Administration Officials (see attached
IV. PRESS PLAN:
Open press.
V. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS:
The President enters Rose Garden
The President makes remarks
The President signs proclamation
The President exits Rose Garden.
Remarks are provided by speechwriters.
ASIAN AMERICAN WHITE HOUSE STAFF
Sichan Siv
Deputy Assistant to the President for Public Liaison
Lehman Li
Special Assistant to the President
and Executive Secretary, Economic Policy Council
NOTIFIED
Clayton Fong
Deputy Associate Director
Office of Presidential Personnel
2973 NOTIFIED S/S
Michael Thieman
Assistant Deputy Director
HEKNOW?S
Office of Presidential Personnel
Senior Administration Officials
Elaine Chao
Deputy Secretary of Transportation
Julia Chang Bloch
Ambassador Designate to Nepal
SHE KNOWS
Wendy Gramm, Chairman
Commodity Futures Trading Commission
254-6970 NOTIFIED
Joy Cherian, Commissioner
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
634-6726 NOTIFIED
Kyo Jhin
Chief Counsel for Advocacy
Small Business Administration
Document No.
033370SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/5/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
1939 MAY -5 -5 PM 3-
May 5, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
CURT SMITH
is
THROUGH: CHRISS WINSTON cw
RE:
ASIAN/PACIFIC HERITAGE WEEK REMARKS
I. SUMMARY
At 10:15 a.m. Monday, May 8, you will address over 200
hundred Asian-Americans in the Rose Garden. There, you will sign
a proclamation naming this Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.
II. DISCUSSION
The enclosed remarks focus on the contributions of
Asian/Pacific Americans to this country's quality of life. In
particular, they discuss the values which distinguish the
Asian/Pacific community.
You will find two bracketed paragraphs at the end of the
speech. We are awaiting the approval from Boyden Gray's office
in order to use these comments. If they are approved, we will
insert them into the text.
(Smith/Wallace)
May 5, 1989
Draft Four
ASIAN
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ASIAN HERITAGE WEEK
ROSE GARDEN
MONDAY, MAY 8, 1989
Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans.
You know, an Asian proverb says, "Intelligence consists
in recognizing opportunity." Well, if that's true, it's clear
that you may be one of the most intelligent groups I have
welcomed to the White House! For you have recognized
opportunity, and seized it. And I am delighted to be with you.
O We gather today in a special week -- Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week. Yesterday marked the 146th anniversary
of the day the first Japanese immigrated to America. And
Wednesday celebrates the 120th birthday of an event Chinese-
Americans made possible -- the driving of the Golden Spike to
complete the first Transcontinental Railroad.
O We meet, too, as special friends. And, in particular, I
want to thank three people. Jeanie Jew, who created the idea for
this week and is the granddaughter of a Chinese pioneer who
helped build that railroad; Frank Horton, the chief sponsor of
the Heritage Week legislation; and Ruby Moy, Chairman of the
Congressional Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week Caucus.
Perhaps most of all, we assemble here for a special
reason: To salute the millions of refugees and immigrants from
Asia and the Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our
shores. And to salute a community which has enriched America's
community -- socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
Someone once told me of a restaurant in China where three
American tourists walked in wearing the most outlandish safari
clothes, complete with Panama hats, backpacks, videocameras, a
brace of walkmans and a few Chinese phrases picked up from a
stateside friend who happens to own a wok.
O
The friends stood around looking for a waiter, and
finally one asked in a loud voice: "How do we get his
attention?" ((PAUSE))
O
Ladies and gentlemen, that's one way to "get attention." "
But as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, let
me observe that you have chosen another way. You've done it
through excellence, with the value of your lives.
o
Those values are, of course, discipline and self-
sacrifice. Humility and compassion. An abiding belief in work.
A soaring love of freedom. Values which brought your parents,
your grandparents, and some of you to America. Values which are
now uplifting America.
O I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
of American Can. or Jenlan Gee [Jen-lane JEE], the California
Teacher of the Year. or Henry Tang and I.M. Pei. or Sichan Siv
of our own White House staff.
O
My friends, they -- you -- are building a better America.
And creating new jobs. You're enhancing our medical schools, the
law, our small and large businesses. In short, honoring your
heritage by the lives you lead.
O For that, I congratulate you. And, in a personal sense,
I want to thank you, too. For as Ambassador to China, I came,
with Barbara, to love that heritage. And in countless ways --
with countless friends -- to see, and share, what lies at its
center: the family.
O
Ten weeks ago, on a trip to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and
I visited the nondenominational church we'd attended in Bejing.
It's different now, bigger. But the values -- the heritage --
are the same. And the memories are even better. Like when our
daughter Doro was baptized -- the first person to be publicly
baptized in China in over 40 years.
O
Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart. And so does an old Chinese proverb which I have often
cited. It goes, "One generation plants the trees; another gets
the shade."
O
For decades, Asian-Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity, and human dignity. And in coming years,
more than ever, I know that my children -- America's children --
will thank you for the shade.
O God bless you, thank you for coming here, and God bless
the United States of America.
#
#
#
#
[[0 Finally, before I sign the proclamation declaring this
week as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, it gives me great
pleasure to announce two nominations that I will submit to the
Senate for confirmation to positions within my administration. ]]
[[0 I will be sending the name of Julia Chang Block to the
Senate to be the next United States Ambassador to Nepal and the
name of Kyo Jhin (Kee-o Gin) to be the Chief Counsel for advocacy
in the Small Business Administration. I look forward to having
both of these qualified, capable individuals join our team. ]]
#177
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
May 8, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT SIGNING CEREMONY FOR
ASIAN/PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK PROCLAMATION
The Rose Garden
10:15 A.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Welcome to the Rose Garden. Ladies and
gentlemen and fellow Americans, you know, an Asian proverb says
"intelligence consists in recognizing opportunity." Well, if that's
true, it's clear that we are recognizing opportunity in putting the
flag back where it belongs. (Laughter.) No, intelligence consists
in recognizing opportunity, and it's clear that you may be one of the
most intelligent groups that we've welcomed to the White House, for
you've recognized opportunity and seized it, and I am just delighted
to be with you.
I'd like to welcome a very special visitor, President
Hammer DeRoburt of Nauru out in the Pacific -- (applause) -- a friend
of the United States, welcome, sir. And I think it's appropriate
he's here, head of an island-state in the Pacific -- most appropriate
that you join us here today, sir. Thank you.
We gather in a special week, Asian/Pacific American
Heritage Week, and yesterday marked the 146th anniversary of the day
the first Japanese immigrated to America, and Wednesday celebrates
the 120th birthday of an event that Chinese-Americans made possible,
the driving of the golden spike to complete the first
transcontinental railroad. (Applause.) And we meet, too, as special
friends, and in particular, I want to thank three people -- Jeanie
Jew, who created the idea for this week and is the granddaughter of a
Chinese pioneer who helped build that railroad; Frank Horton, the
chief sponsor of the Heritage Week legislation, and Ruby Moy,
chairman of the Congressional Asia/Pacific American Heritage Week
Caucus.
Perhaps most of all we assemble here for a special
reason, to salute the millions of refugees and immigrants from Asia
and the Pacific who braved the unknown and ventured to our shores,
and to salute a community which has enriched America's community
socially, culturally, economically, spiritually.
Ladies and gentlemen, as we proclaim this Asian/Pacific
American Heritage Week let me observe that you have earned this
recognition. You've done it through excellence, with the value of
your lives. Those values are of, course, discipline and
self-sacrifice; humility and compassion; an abiding belief in work; a
soaring love of freedom -- values which brought your parents, your
grandparents, and some of you, right here to America -- values which
are now uplifting America.
I think, for example, of pioneers like Gerald Tsai, Jr.
or Jenlan Gee, the California Teacher of the Year; or Henry Tang and
I.M. Pei -- of our own Sichan Siv who fled the killing fields of
Cambodia and a daring escape -- now at work right here in the White
House. Let me mention my trusted advisor, Lehmann Li, who's been at
my side for a long time. You talk about a bright individual, he's a
walking encylopedia.
MORE
- 2 -
My friends, they, you, are building a better America and
creating new jobs. You're enhancing our medical schools, the law,
our small and large businesses. In short, honoring your heritage by
the lives you lead, and for that I congratulate you. And in a
personal sense I want to thank you, too, for as Chief of the United
States Liaison Office in China, I came with Barbara to love that
heritage. And in countless ways, with countless friends, to see and
share what lies at its center -- the family. Ten weeks ago on a trip
back to Asia and to the Pacific Rim, Barbara and I visited the
nondenominational church that we'd attended in Beijing. And it's
different now it's bigger.
But the values, the heritage, are the same, and the
memories are even better. And I'll never forget when our own
daughter was baptized right there in China.
Yes, the Asian/Pacific community has a special place in
my heart, and so does an old Chinese proverb which I've often cited.
It goes: One generation plants the trees, another gets the shade.
For decades, Asian Americans have planted the trees of
prosperity, opportunity and human dignity. And in coming years, more
than ever, I know that my children, America's children, will thank
you for the shade.
And finally, before I sign this proclamation declaring
this week as Asia Pacific American Heritage Week, it gives me great
pleasure to announce two nominations that I will submit to the Senate
for confirmation to positions within my administration. I'll be
sending the name of Julia Chang Bloch to the Senate to be the next --
(applause) -- United States Ambassador -- please -- (laughter and
applause) -- the next United States Ambassador to Nepal. And the
name of Kyo Jhin to be Chief Counsel -- Kyo -- Chief Counsel for
Advocacy in the SBA. (Applause.) And I salute, also, Katherine
Chang Dress, sworn in today as an Assistant Secretary of the
Interior. (Applause.)
We are so lucky, and we welcome these qualified, capable
individuals to our team.
God bless all of you. Thank you for coming here to
Washington on this beautiful day. And now, let's sign this
proclamation. (Applause.) Thank you very much.
END
10:23 A.M. EDT