Bill Clinton

“ Americans of Asian and Pacific ancestry share twin heritages-the stimulating cultural legacy of the lands of their ancestors and the liberty that is the birthright of every American. Drawing on the values and customs of their homelands and their expectations of America's promise, Asian/Pacific Americans have long helped to advance and enrich our Nation. We can all be profoundly grateful for their contributions to every field of human endeavor, from science, law, and literature to agriculture, commerce, government, and the arts. ”

“ The Pacific Ocean is ringed by some of the most populous, dynamic, and promising countries the world has ever known. So rapid has the progress been in this region that the new Pacific community has come to exemplify the ideals of growth and prosperity. ”

“ America is well-placed to play a major role in that thriving community, not only because of geography and history, but also because of the leading role that countless Americans of Asian/Pacific descent play in our diverse society. ”