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May 4, 2005
The following message is from David Wilkins, American
Red Cross Chief Diversity Officer:
The American Red Cross proudly joins the Nation in celebrating Asian
Pacific American Heritage Month. In 1978, a joint congressional
resolution established Asian Pacific American Heritage Week. In 1992,
Congress expanded the observance to a month long celebration. May was
chosen in commemoration of the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants
to the United States in May 1843 and the completion of the
transcontinental railroad in May of 1869.
During May, your American Red Cross recognizes Asian
Pacific Americans who have helped guide and shape the policies, programs
and services that support our mission of saving lives. As past and
present Board of Governors members, Chapter and Blood Region executives,
Chapter Chairs, members of the National Youth Council and National
Diversity Council and volunteers and employees across lines of
service, the American Red Cross has benefited greatly from the work of
Asian Pacific Americans.
The Nation’s theme for 2005, “Bridging the Gap Between Our
Differences- Promoting Diversity” sends a message of inclusiveness
that we strive to achieve within our organization. Did you know
there are currently 12 million people of Asian heritage living in the
United States? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, between 2000 and
2050, the Asian American population will increase 213 percent while the
general population will grow by 49 percent.
I encourage you to learn more about Asian Pacific heritage and to
join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our Asian Pacific American
colleagues, neighbors and friends. For more information about Asian
Pacific heritage and culture, please visit the following websites:
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