Jimmy Carter

“ Those who have come from Asian and Pacific countries have long added a special quality to our American mosaic. In spite of adversity, in spite of violence inflicted on their peoples and cultures, Asian and Pacific Americans have shed sweat and blood in the struggle for America's nationhood and in the quest for freedom and opportunity. Out of all proportion to their numbers, Asian and Pacific Americans have contributed to our Nation's progress in a wide range of fields-science, the arts, literature, agriculture, industry and commerce. ”

“ As we welcome new groups of Asian and Pacific peoples to our shores, our hearts are saddened by the suffering that has caused many of them to leave their homelands, but we are proud to be able to offer them freedom and hope and opportunity in America. ”

“ As we work together to help them make the difficult adjustments to a new land and new lives, we are deeply aware of our debt to the generations of Asian and Pacific Americans who have come before them. ”