Mike Honda

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the California State University on its 50th anniversary. I am a proud alumnus of the CSU system--I earned my bachelor's degrees in biological sciences and Spanish, and my master's degree in education from San Jose State University. The California State University, the largest state university system in the nation, plays a significant role in California's success, with graduates numbering one in every ten members of California's workforce. The California State University is also on the forefront of ensuring the opportunity to receive a quality college education for the state's increasingly diverse population. With 23 distinct campuses, from my alma mater in San Jose to CSU Long Beach and the California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, the CSU system brings higher education to a diverse student body of nearly 400,000 students every year. In 2002-03, more than half of all undergraduate degrees granted to Latino, African American and Native American students in California were awarded by the CSU. The impact of the CSU far exceeds the number of students it educates. The CSU provides more than 200,000 jobs for Californians, and research by CSU faculty and staff is solving critical problems for the state and creating innovative solutions for business and industry. Additionally, CSU students give back to their communities by participating in 32 million hours of service annually. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to commend the California State University system on 50 years of not only providing high-quality, affordable higher education to meet the changing workforce needs of California, but also preparing students to become engaged members of their community, state and nation.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Franklin Odo for his 12 years of service as Director of the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Program. The Asian Pacific American Program assists the Smithsonian's 19 museums and research centers with the collection of Asian Pacific Americans' artifacts, programs, research, and outreach. The program gives Asian Pacific American communities across the Nation access to the Smithsonian. In addition to being the founding director of the Asian Pacific American Program at the Smithsonian Institution, Dr. Odo was the first and only Asian Pacific American curator at the National Museum of American History. Dr. Odo has dedicated his life to documenting, preserving, and presenting the histories of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. He has written numerous critically acclaimed books on the Asian American experience, taught at prestigious universities across the Nation, and brought to the Smithsonian cutting edge exhibits on Chinese Americans, Native Hawaiians, Korean Americans, Filipino Americans, and Japanese Americans. As an educator myself, I understand and respect Dr. Odo's work. Whether as a professor or a curator, Dr. Odo has made teaching his priority. Through his work and vision, Dr. Odo has managed to engage thousands of people in the history, culture, and important contributions of Asian Pacific Americans. He is able to translate scholarly work into publicly accessible formats. Dr. Odo has helped many of us tell our story and ensure that these important lessons continue to pass on from generation to generation. Franklin Odo has been an activist and academic, and will continue to be a leader in our community. We hold a debt of gratitude to Dr. Odo for his incredible contributions.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H.R. 2314, the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2009. Passage of this legislation is a top priority of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, which I currently chair. I commend Representative Neil Abercrombie, sponsor of the bill, and the House Committee on Natural Resources for recognizing the importance of self-determination to the Native Hawaiian people. In 1893, the monarchy of the Kingdom of Hawai'i was overthrown by agents of the United States. This has created wounds and issues that have never been addressed or resolved. The United States took an important first step in reconciling this part of history by passing a resolution which acknowledged the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawai'i and offered an apology to Native Hawaiians. While these are laudable efforts, H.R. 2314 would continue the reconciliation and healing process by providing Native Hawaiians the same right of self governance and self determination that is afforded to other indigenous peoples. Since Hawaii was annexed as a territory, the United States has treated Native Hawaiians in a manner similar to that of American Indians and Alaska Natives. This bill would formalize that relationship and establish parity in federal policies towards all of our indigenous peoples. I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 2314 and afford Native Hawaiians the opportunity for self determination and self governance.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. I want to thank the chairman for this opportunity. For those who are in this debate, I think this is what Congress is all about, where we talk about very substantive issues. And this is one of those most important issues because it affects our relationship with other countries, other States, and other indigenous people. And in this case, indigenous people who are considered sovereign entities. And this is what we are trying to accomplish for the Native Hawaiians in Hawaii. This is not about race. I think when we use race and other things it sort of muddies up the issues. And I think that our colleague, Congressman Cole, explains it very clearly. And as a teacher, and I am not a lawyer, but as a teacher and as a very simple person not understanding all the laws and all the terminologies in law, how he explains it is very clear. I think the people of this country understand clear talk. When they hear clear talk they understand that when we are talking about justice and equality and recognizing indigenous people, it becomes very, very evident which way we should go. This is, like Congressman Cole said, this is about Federal authority under the Constitution. And the 48 States had already done this with indigenous people. Some people call them Indian tribes, but nonetheless, they were indigenous people. Mr. Young, from the 49th State, indicates the same sentiment. And that when they became the 49th State, their considerations to indigenous people, or Indian tribes, they accorded them the same kind of consideration of self- determination. Hawaii is trying to do the same thing, the 50th State. And so it seems like if the previous 49 States are able to do this, this is one of replication, and there is a lot of things being established. And Chairman Rahall had indicated what this bill is not about. And that should just clearly set aside any kinds of arguments against this kind of an effort. I appreciate the work of both Mr. Abercrombie and Ms. Hirono. And I think that under the Constitution and under the eyes of justice, and for those who are clear thinkers in the Congress, this should be a no brainer. We should approve this bill and make it into law and finally recognize the people of Hawaii, the indigenous people of Hawaii as who they are, a self-determining indigenous group. The Federal courts did not talk about when it was brought up about the moneys being used for the native tribes.

Mr. HONDA. If I could have 30 seconds.

Mr. HONDA. In 5 seconds, Federal moneys cannot be used for State elections. State elections cannot be used for private kinds of elections. That is what they were saying. It is not about race.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the compassionate work of the tens of thousands members of the U.S. armed forces, federal agencies, NGOs, international organizations, and volunteers on the ground providing direct assistance to the people of Haiti. Our brothers and sisters from the island nation of Haiti are facing an unimaginable human catastrophe as the country works to recover from the magnitude-7 earthquake that struck on January 12, 2010, the largest recorded in Haiti in over a century. By providing critical services ranging from emergency medical care and food distribution to helping maintain security, these men and women represent the best of the humanitarian character and make us all proud. It is prudent, then, that we match their bravery and selflessness in the epicenter of the disaster with a compassionate, multi-pronged response. President Obama quickly brought the focus of the relevant federal agencies onto Haiti, and Congress has acted swiftly to encourage the American people to contribute to the effort by passing H.R. 4462, which would allow taxpayers to deduct charitable cash donations for the relief of victims of this tragic event on their 2009 income tax returns. Further, I recognize that the Government of Haiti cannot afford to invest in humanitarian relief, reconstruction, and development efforts, while continuing to make payments on debts owed to multilateral financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the Inter-American Development Bank. Even before the earthquake, debt service payments to these institutions were a tremendous burden that interfered with the ability of the Government of Haiti to meet the needs of its people. For this reason, I have long been a supporter of efforts to cancel Haiti's debts owed to these multilateral financial institutions, and I have reiterated my call for debt cancellation in the wake of the earthquake. In addition, many of my colleagues and I have joined the effort to extend temporary protected status to Haitian nationals who are currently in the U.S. so that they can assist their fellow countrymen and women through remittances and other support. The effect of the earthquake on Haiti is reflected not only in the thousands of buildings destroyed, but more accurately in the cost of human lives and families devastated. According to United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, ``[o]f Haiti's 9 million people, initial reports suggest roughly a third may be affected by the disaster.'' The international humanitarian and security response has already provided much needed shelter, food, and medical support. As these initial efforts unfold, the need expands into maintaining security, reestablishing the democratically elected government, and providing sustainable services to the people of Haiti. To help fulfill this need, I am a proud cosponsor of the Next Steps for Haiti Act (H.R. 417). Introduced by my dear friend Congresswoman Barbara Lee, H.R. 417 would support the capacity building efforts by the Haitian government and civil society, supporting President Obama's commitment to support the people of Haiti in their efforts to not only recover from this human catastrophe but also to hold on to and work hard toward their vision of a strong economy and democracy. Once again, Madam Speaker, I join my colleagues in expressing my condolences to the victims' families, both here at home and on the island, and encourage all Americans to help in Haiti's rescue, recovery and empowerment.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Greg Van Wassenhove, recently retired Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of the County of Santa Clara. Throughout his many years of service, Greg has brought knowledge, strength and vitality not only to the agricultural community but to the many County departments that he has managed. Greg Van Wassenhove graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara with a degree in Biological Sciences in 1973, and in 1974 started work with the San Mateo County Agricultural Commissioner's Office. In 1983, Greg was appointed the Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer of Weights and Measures for Santa Clara County; and for the past 25 years, Greg has demonstrated a continuing commitment to pest prevention at the state and national levels. Greg has participated in numerous advisory committees relating to pest prevention, including the Governor's Blue Ribbon Panel on Eradication of Exotic Pests. Greg has collaborated with other County Agricultural Commissioners to develop common efforts on pest prevention, and has also worked with the Statewide County Agricultural Commissioners' Association to establish ongoing funding to prevent the introduction of invasive species and to control and eradicate pest populations once they were established. Greg has successfully contributed to the eradication of the Mediterranean fruit fly from San Mateo County and, on three occasions, in Santa Clara County. For the past 35 years, Greg has dedicated himself to providing exceptional public services that promote and protect the agricultural industry of the State as well as consumers. He has worked in two urban counties where the control and prevention of invasive species introduction is critical to the local agricultural economy and the rest of the state. His cooperative efforts with industry as well as with all levels of federal, state and local government, including the development of an excellent working relationship with USDA, CDFA, and Congressional and State representatives, promoted programs that involved the prevention and control of invasive species. As an expert in the field of pest prevention, Greg's efforts helped lead to the development of the California High Risk Pest Exclusion Program and the Pest and Disease Management Section of the 2007 Farm Bill. Greg has also led Santa Clara County's efforts to advocate for and protect its residents through his position as the County's Sealer of Weights and Measures, where Greg has enforced the laws which ensure that consumers are treated honestly and businesses are held accountable. Finally, Greg has accepted any challenge presented to him. In addition to his other duties, Greg oversaw such diverse divisions of County government as Animal Control, Vector Control, Integrated Waste Management, Environmental Health, Fire Marshall and Weed Abatement. It is with great respect for, and in admiration of, Greg Van Wassenhove that I stand in honor today. His many years of service to the residents of Santa Clara County, the agricultural community, and the State of California are greatly appreciated and his legacy will benefit us for many years to come.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 1002, honoring the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and encouraging the continued commitment to Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a national day of service. Through the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Day of Service, we honor Dr. King's noble vision of equality and message of compassion. Dr. King preached peace in the fight for equality, shaking the foundations of segregation with love for others, even those who sought to oppose his vision. His unyielding commitment to non-violent resistance anchored his messages, and his ``I Have a Dream'' speech changed America and sparked a movement that embraced civil rights, justice, equality and human dignity for all. This is a movement that we must continue to fight for and protect. We have celebrated considerable successes due to Dr. King's Dream. Housing, schools and transportation are now accessible by all Americans. Indeed, in 2008 Americans took another great step toward realizing Dr. King's vision by electing America's first African- American President, Barack Obama. These achievements were not easily won, but Dr. King's Dream has proven resilient and it has persevered. As a Representative of Silicon Valley, one of the most ethnically diverse areas of the country, I appreciate Dr. King's message of equality. As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, CAPAC, I recognize the great strides that have been made since Dr. King sparked the historic civil rights movement, and CAPAC has continued to vigilantly ensure equal opportunity remains accessible to all. For his vision and sacrifices, we owe Dr. King a great debt of gratitude for his service and leadership to our Nation, and there is no better way to express that gratitude than through our own personal service to the Nation. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service will serve to remind Americans that we should all take the time to contribute to our communities. This day continues to pay tribute to the life and actions of a great man, as we continue to foster brotherhood and service amongst our friends, neighbors, and communities. Since its designation as a federal holiday in 1994, Americans have Dr. King's birthday to act on his ideals. It has been a day to improve lives, bridge social barriers, and change our Nation into the ``Beloved Community'' that Dr. King had hoped to see during his life. Thanks in part to the commitment we have shown to honor Dr. King, the Day of Service continues to grow in popularity as a chance for citizens, business leaders, and public officials alike to contribute to their communities. In 2009 alone, over 13,000 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service projects occurred throughout the Nation, honoring the Dream of Dr. King. I am pleased that the constituents of California's 15th District have answered this call to service as a tribute to Dr. King's life. Constituents of all backgrounds volunteer to remove graffiti, pick up litter, improve parks, and engage in other activities that aim to selflessly improve the world around them. Though each individual's effort may be small, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service provides the medium to combine an individual's energies with those of his or her neighbors. The resulting collaboration is an impactful and tangible celebration of Dr. King's messages. As we near the day of remembrance, we must recognize that the fight goes on. Dr. King's Dream embodies an ideal for our Nation to pursue-- Americans of all ethnicities and creeds, living together with dignity and hope. To admire Dr. King's life requires us to follow his legacy. Let us honor his life by working together to continue to build an America where every child enjoys all the privileges of equal opportunity and freedom.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, today I honor the life and achievements of my dear friend, former California State Assemblymember Nao Takasugi. Nao dedicated his life to public service with humility, integrity, and commitment to the American ideals of equality and justice. Nao was a 19-year-old student at the University of California, Los Angeles, when he and his family were incarcerated in an internment camp for Japanese Americans during World War II. His family was forced to sell most of their possessions, but was able to keep the family store, the Asahi Market in downtown Oxnard, which they had owned since 1907. The Takasugi family was able to save the store during their imprisonment by entrusting the family business to a Mexican American employee, Ignacio Carmona. When the Takasugi family returned to Oxnard in 1945, Mr. Carmona returned the business back to the Takasugis, after faithfully carrying on the business for three years. In 1943, Nao was among approximately 4,000 Japanese American college students who were released from the internment camps and allowed to attend college on the East Coast. Nao earned his business administration degree at Temple University in Philadelphia and a master's in business administration from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1946. When he returned to Oxnard, he ran his family's Asahi Market. His family's imprisonment inspired him to commit his life to strengthening our democracy in public service, and did not cause deep embitterment. As Oxnard City Councilman, Mayor, and then California State Assemblyman, he ably represented all of his diverse constituents, crossing racial and ethnic divides, and building bridges across party lines. At the age of 87, Nao died of complications from a stroke on November 19, 2009. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Judy, and their five children, Scott, Russell, Ron, Tricia and Lea. I was truly saddened by the loss of my dear friend Nao Takasugi. He was a gentle soul, and never let his kind demeanor get in the way of his strong beliefs about justice and civil rights. When he spoke, people listened as he was always true to his convictions and sense of honor. I will miss him dearly and will always reflect on his life as a metric of how I should conduct my own.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for H. Res. 727, emphasizing the need for greater awareness about ovarian cancer and adopting the goals and ideals established by National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Having lost my wife of 36 years, Jeanne, to ovarian cancer in 2004, I am acutely sensitive to the need for reliable early detection programs and effective treatments for late stage ovarian cancer. I am not alone in having lost a loved one to this disease--ovarian cancer is the deadliest of all gynecologic cancers, affecting over 20,000 women a year. Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women, killing nearly 55 percent of those diagnosed within the first 5 years. Despite this tragically high toll, we still remain woefully ignorant of proper prevention strategies for ovarian cancer, and have yet to develop a reliable early detection program. While over 90 percent of ovarian cancer cases can be prevented with early screening and treatment, many women remain unaware of their risk factors and the early symptoms of ovarian cancer are particularly difficult to accurately diagnose. Because of this, 75 percent of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed in the advanced stages where it is often too late to prevent the cancer's spread. Awareness and early recognition are the best way to save women's lives. Congress is making some effort to address the inadequacies in our current system. For example, in November 2005, the House passed the Gynecological Resolution for the Advancement of Ovarian Cancer Education in a bipartisan effort to increase the public's understanding of this deadly disease. The President and nonprofit advocacy groups are also engaged in educating the public. President Obama proclaimed September National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and throughout September, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance held hundreds of events across the country to inform women about the importance of gynecologic exams, and to teach them about the warning signs of ovarian cancer. Better education, more funding for research, and increased awareness efforts are critical to ensuring that we reduce infection and mortality rates for ovarian cancer in women. I urge my colleagues to continue our efforts to increase research funding to cure ovarian cancer and support public outreach programs on the prevention and treatment of gynecological cancers.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise along with my colleagues Ms. Zoe Lofgren, Mr. Jerry McNerney, and Ms. Anna Eshoo to honor Sig Sanchez, a truly dedicated public servant of California's 15th Congressional District. Sig, a resident of Gilroy, California, will retire this December, after 55 years of exemplary public service in Santa Clara County. His most recent service included 29 years as a Director and five-time Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Santa Clara Valley Water District. Prior to this, Mr. Sanchez served as an elected member of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors for 18 years, a Gilroy City Councilmember for 14 years, and Mayor of the City of Gilroy for five years. During his busy and productive career, Mr. Sanchez has also been an active member of numerous national, state, and local water resource affiliations, including the Agricultural Water Advisory Committee, Central Valley Project Authority, Pajaro River Watershed Flood Prevention Authority, San Luis & Delta Mendota Water Authority Board and Finance Committee, Uvas/Llagas Flood Control and Watershed Advisory Committee, Santa Clara Valley Water Commission, Santa Clara Valley Water District Board Ad Hoc Audit Committee, and the South County Regional Wastewater Authority. Even while dedicating so much of his time to water issues, Sig did not lose focus on the big picture, helping to strengthen the local community through his efforts with HOPE Rehabilitation, Wheeler Hospital Foundation Board, South Valley Hospital, Health Dimensions Inc., Odd-Fellows and Rebekah Children's Home, and the Gilroy Elks Club. In 1991, Mr. Sanchez was inducted into the Gilroy Hall of Fame and was honored and recognized with a 10-mile portion of state Highway Route 101 named for him. His work as a farmer and businessman, along with his years as public servant to the water community as a leader during very tumultuous times, has won him the hearts and good will of all who know him. Our community is grateful to Sig Sanchez for his dedication to public service and contributions to the residents of Santa Clara County, and we wish him well in retirement.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the month of November as Native American Indian Heritage Month, and to express my support for the Native American Business Development Enhancement Act of 2009. Over 562 Native American tribes have made extraordinary professional, educational, and cultural contributions to our community. After centuries of gross mistreatment at the hands of the U.S. government and generations of unequal, exploitative policies that have worked to effectively rob Native Americans of their land, culture, and livelihood, it is a privilege to honor the many accomplishments that these groups are making today. Their rich ancestry and surviving traditions are a living testament of the strength and unyielding spirit shared by many great tribal nations across this land, and their legacy will continue to be a major part of the ethnic fabric of American society. Since its inception in 1990, Native American Indian Heritage Month has sought to promote recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the United States, and increase awareness of the tragedies and discrimination these groups have experienced throughout history. This year's theme, Pride in Our Heritage, Honor to our Ancestors, reflects the importance of remembering the rich and diverse cultural legacy of our Native American communities. In the spirit of recognizing the longstanding social and economic inequalities facing Native American tribes, it is crucial that we take steps to ensure that Native American communities achieve equal access to public services, government funding, employment, business and educational opportunities. Individually and as distinct nations, Native Americans have made distinguished and significant achievements in the fields of agriculture, business, medicine, music, language, and art. I have every confidence that they will continue to distinguish themselves in those arenas as well as in government, as entrepreneurs, athletes, and scholars in the years and decades to come. As we proceed to strengthen America's economic and social infrastructure, it is imperative that we target existing inequalities and discriminatory policies and make an active, nationwide effort to include Native Americans in future programs through forward-thinking legislation, such as the Native American Business Development Enhancement Act of 2009. I strongly support H.R. 1834, the Native American Business Development Enhancement Act of 2009, which will be considered by the House today. This legislation, introduced by my colleague Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, will establish the Office of Native American Affairs within the Small Business Administration. This effort will increase Native American entrepreneurship and engage tribes in the small business arena. In this vein, I have been working to further Native American business and economic development by supporting the elevation and funding of the Office of Native American Business Development, ONABD, at the Department of Commerce. I believe the ONABD should be more independent and receive an increase of funds in order to expand its activities, and fulfill its duties to expand business development, trade promotion and tourism opportunities for Native American tribes and their enterprises. In closing, Madam Speaker, celebrating Native American Indian Heritage Month and supporting our Native American community is an important milestone to increase public awareness of their role in American history and recognize their cultural legacies that enrich our everyday lives.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, in our lives as public servants, Members of Congress are rarely presented with opportunities to support the passage of truly historic legislation. Today is such a day, and this health care vote such an opportunity. Over the past ten months that I have participated in the creation of this health reform bill, I have been thinking about the words of Hubert Humphrey: ``It was once said that the moral test of government is how that government treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the elderly; and those who are in the shadows of life, the sick, the needy and the handicapped.'' Today I rise in strong support of H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act. For 70 years Americans have been waiting for this moment. I would like to particularly thank Speaker Pelosi for her deft leadership and management of a complex policy debate, Majority Leader Hoyer, Majority Whip Clyburn, the Chairs of the Committees on Energy and Commerce, Education and Labor, and Ways and Means, along with my fellow progressive and colleagues in the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, Congressional Black Caucus, and Congressional Hispanic Caucus (collectively known as the TriCaucus) for their public and private commitments to preserve the public option. Finally, I commend staff of all the committees for their hard work and commitment to this issue. Against an organized, scorched earth campaign of misinformation and fear mongering, we are emerging with a strong bill, and an even stronger sense of unity and purpose in our fight to bring access, affordability, and high quality health care to every person in America. If the best of our reforms prevail, insurance companies will no longer be able to subject people to complex, confusing policy details, lifetime and annual limits, or denials based on pre-existing conditions. American taxpayers will save over $100 billion in the first decade and will experience significant improvements in our health care system. Although I have strenuously supported a stronger public option, I recognize that the balance of improvements made to the health care system as a whole through the reforms in this bill is substantial. When some thought the public option was dead, I and my other colleagues rallied to bring it back into the discussion and succeeded in keeping the public option in the final bill. The public option is a cornerstone of the effort to bend the cost curve in health care and must be preserved. In my district alone, H.R. 2692 will improve employer based coverage for 500,000 residents, allow 16,700 small businesses to obtain affordable health care coverage and provide coverage for 28,000 uninsured residents. Finally, in a time of increasing pressure on local governments, it will reduce the cost of uncompensated care for hospitals and health care providers by $205 million. It will protect the seniors in my district from the doughnut hole and improve the quality of their Medicare coverage. As Chairman of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I am particularly encouraged by the inclusion of legislative language addressing racial and ethnic health disparities. As members of the TriCaucus, we have long been advocating on the issue of health disparities and I am proud of the impact we have had in making changes that will directly help the poorest and most disadvantaged communities. across this nation. As a long-time supporter of Native Americans in their struggle to survive and thrive after hundreds of years of oppression and genocide, I am particularly pleased by the inclusion of the Indian Comprehensive Health Insurance Act in health care reform. Native American communities worked for over a decade to come together and write policy that would help their communities begin to address the terrible and tragic health disparities they experience and the inclusion of ICHIA is a step in the right direction by the Federal Government to rectify some of the imbalances and abuses that they have caused in Native communities. Despite the many extraordinary improvements to many aspects of our healthcare system, including an unprecedented expansion of access to Medicaid for many poor families, I am dismayed that we were not able to lift the 5 year bar on legal immigrant participation in Medicaid. Legal immigrants are tax paying citizens in waiting who work hard and contribute. It is only fair that we afford them equal access to the benefits of Medicaid. I will continue to advocate on this issue in the future and I know that I am joined in my concern by many of my colleagues. Americans live in the wealthiest, most powerful nation in the world and spend $2 trillion a year on health care every year--more than the national budget of China--and yet we don't have the best health care in the world. Thousands suffer and many die because of a lack of access to health care. Passing this bill and preserving its structure is a critical investment in the health of future generations.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Team California, a partnership between Santa Clara University and California College of the Arts, for placing third in the Department of Energy's 2009 International Solar Decathlon. I congratulate the students, faculty, administration, and sponsors for their tremendous accomplishments. The Solar Decathlon competition challenged university teams from around the globe to design, build, and operate a solar energy powered home that incorporates energy efficiency, architectural creativity, and an applicable living style in order to illustrate the benefits and practical application of green living. The team of Santa Clara University and the California College of the Arts was one of only 20 teams from around the world selected to compete in the 2009 Solar Decathlon, the only schools from California and from the entire West Coast involved in the competition. SCU and CCA were among the smallest schools in the Decathlon, but they excelled in the competition and received top scores for their remarkable ``Refract House.'' En route to placing 3rd overall, Team California placed first in the Architecture and Communications contests and earned second place for Appliances, Home Entertainment, and Engineering in the design and structure of their home. Their efforts and outstanding achievements at the 2009 Solar Decathlon are to be highly commended, and their work will contribute significantly to the future designs of solar powered homes. The ``Refract House'' offered a wide array of eco-friendly features, including aesthetically-pleasing solar photovoltaic arrays, radiant heating and cooling, double-paned windows and doors and top-of-the line energy-efficient appliances. Moreover, the house was largely composed from recycled waste, illustrated by their walls composed of used billboards and salvaged redwood. Through their work in the Solar Decathlon, Santa Clara University and the California College of the Arts have shown that it is within our grasp to reduce carbon emissions and live off renewable energy. Santa Clara University is demonstrating this even beyond the Solar Decathlon as well, recently earning recognition from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Green Power Partnership as one of the Nation's Top 20 Colleges and Universities using green power and qualifying for EPA's Green Power Leadership Club. During the Decathlon competition, I had the pleasure of hosting a briefing in the U.S. Capitol during which the Team California members talked about their solar house, the technologies they used, and policy issues surrounding renewable energy. I was honored to have my California colleagues Representative Zoe Lofgren and Sam Farr attend the briefing, and was proud of the work the students, faculty, and administrators did to educate Members of Congress and the public about the promise of renewable energy, which does not produce greenhouse gases and can reduce global warming. Global warming threatens our economy, our coastal cities, and possibly the very existence of humanity. Expanding the use of renewable energy is a key development for improving American livelihoods and the livelihoods of individuals all over the world, who will gain greater control over their own lives as they gain control over the means of generating their energy, and the work of Team California will help to make that a reality. The ``Refract House'' highlights the strengths and technological innovation of Silicon Valley, and I once again extend my congratulations and my thanks to Santa Clara University and the California College of the Arts for their strong representation of California and outstanding performance in the 2009 Solar Decathlon.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support House Resolution 784, honoring the 2560th anniversary of the Birth of Confucius and recognizing his invaluable contributions to philosophy, and social and political thought. This resolution is sponsored by my friend and executive board member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), Congressman Al Green of Texas. Confucius was born on September 28, 551 BC in the town of Qufu, in what is now the Shandong Province of China. Though he grew up in poverty, Confucius recognized the value of education in creating an informed and knowledgeable society. He lived his life by this principle and traveled throughout China as a teacher to counsel others in introspection, self-cultivation, sincerity, and the observance of respect within social relationships as a means of achieving justice and attaining morality in the personal and public life. In a chaotic time of internal feuds and wars, Confucius established a peaceful intellectual and personal evolution in the minds and hearts of the Chinese people. He began a global effort to move society in an enlightened direction, and his teachings in the principles of self- transformation, humaneness, strength of mind, and an orderly society have contributed to our advancement. In addition to being known for his commitment to education and self- enlightenment, Confucius's thought also included the principle that politicians must be models of truth and morality. He believed that government must adopt the practice of moral correctness and that politicians must rule with justice and sincerity. These principles have helped build the foundation for political philosophy, and have been a cornerstone for past and future leaders in representing their constituents. Confucius's philosophical teachings have been studied by scholars throughout the world, and his words of wisdom have inspired many generations of dedicated followers. Confucius is considered to be one of the greatest philosophers, whose teachings and philosophy still influence millions of people around the world today. I am proud to be a cosponsor of House Resolution 784 to honor Confucius's birth, life, and teachings. This resolution recognizes the importance of Confucius's edicts in today's society, and conveys the House of Representatives's deepest respect to this important philosopher. I would especially like to thank Congressman Green for making this resolution a priority on the House floor. As a member of CAPAC, Congressman Green is a committed and conscientious advocate on behalf of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. I commend his efforts to recognize Confucius's great contributions to society, and I join him in asking you to support House Resolution 784.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Ho Luong Tran, President and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) on the occasion of her retirement from the Forum to pursue new advocacy opportunities. Dr. Tran has spent 7 years working with sincere, focused dedication to build APIAHF into a leading policy. Dr. Tran has been leading innovative legislative, policy, and community initiatives with an outstanding ability to establish coalitions among the public, private and community sectors for more than 20 years. Under Dr. Tran's leadership, APIAHF has partnered with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation on a groundbreaking initiative, Health Through Action, to provide local communities with funding, training, and technical assistance to address health issues and strengthen a national network of advocates to create a broader health movement. During her tenure as the President and CEO of APIAHF, Dr. Tran has helped create the Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander Alliance and the National Council of API Physicians. Furthermore, she led the development of a national policy blueprint for Asian American, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islander health and enhanced the organization's national presence and reach in Washington D.C. She has worked in health care since earning her degree at the University of Saigon in 1972. Her family fled Vietnam as refugees in 1978, an experience which has shaped and deepened her commitment to the health of her community. I have worked with Dr. Tran and the APIAHF since I was elected to Congress. Her leadership and the excellent work of the Health Forum have enabled the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and Congressional Black Caucus to help significantly positively impact health policy and the conversation around health disparities. Her leadership has been critical in the fight for greater understanding of the challenges facing the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. I know the APIAHF will carry on her legacy of excellence and thank her for her unfailing commitment to improving the health of all Americans.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, on Wednesday, October 14th, I was unavoidably detained due to official business at the White House and was not present for a number of roll call votes. Had I been present I would have voted: ``Yea'' on Rollcall 776, H.R. 1327, the Iran Sanctions Enabling Act of 2009. ``Yea'' on Rollcall 777, H. Res. 816, mourning the loss of life caused by the earthquakes and tsunamis that occurred on September 29, 2009, in American Samoa and Samoa. ``Yea'' on Rollcall 778, H. Res. 786, commemorating the canonization of Father Damien de Veuster, SS.CC. to sainthood. ``Yea'' on Rollcall 779, H.R. 3371, the Airline Safety and Pilot Training Improvement Act of 2009.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Festival of Diwali. Over one billion individuals celebrate the cultural and religious holiday of Diwali each year. Diwali is one of the most joyous festivals celebrated on the South Asian subcontinent. The festival is celebrated in the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain traditions, and has cultural significance for South Asians. Within the United States there are over 2 million celebrating Diwali making it a significant holiday in our country. Diwali literally means ``The Festival of Lights,'' translated from Hindi. Celebrations of Diwali usually involve the lighting of lamps to symbolize hope and joy. I joined Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the White House yesterday, as President Obama lit a lamp in the White House in the observance of the festival, after signing an executive order restoring the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. In the Hindu faith Diwali is often linked to Rama's triumphant return following his victory over Ravana as told in the epic The Ramayana. Following Rama's victory his people lighted lamps along the capital city to celebrate as their King returned. The clay lamps which the people lit, were called Deepavalis which Diwali is a shortened version of. In many Hindu calendars Diwali corresponds with the start of a new year. Diwali is one of the most significant holidays within Hinduism. In Jainism, Diwali marks the date upon which Lord Mahavira achieved the state of absolute bliss or Nirvana. It is said that King Chetaka, upon Lord Mahavira achieving Nirvana, light a multitude of lamps to create a material light to replace the light of intelligence that had been lost. In the Sikh tradition, the foundation of the Golden Temple is said to have been laid on Diwali. In this tradition, the 6th Sikh guru Hargobind was released from prison on the festival of Diwali. There is great diversity among the faiths that celebrate this joyful holiday. Across all these traditions, Diwali holds significance across the South-Asian community as a time of hope, happiness and the renewal of life. I am very proud to have been a co-sponsor of House Resolution 798, conveying the best wishes of the House of Representatives to those celebrating Diwali. The resolution recognizes the importance of Diwali and extends the House of Representatives' deepest respects to all those celebrating Diwali. I would like to join with all those celebrating this joyous time and wish Shubh Diwali to all.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to show my support for the National Council of Asian American Business Associations (NCAABA), and for the important work the NCAABA has done for the Asian American and Pacific Islander business community. NCAABA was founded in 2000 to be the voice of Asian American business owners at the national level, serving as a conduit of resource and information, to educate the public, private and business sectors, to advance America's economic growth and stability. Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Other Pacific Islanders (AA NHOPIs) are the fastest growing demographic group in America. In 2002, there were 1.1 million Asian American-owned firms in America, generating $326 billion in revenues, with the number of Asian American- owned firms growing 24% from 1997, about twice the national average for all businesses. In addition, there were 29,000 Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander (NHOPI)-owned firms, generating $4.3 billion in revenue, with the number of NHOPI-owned firms growing 49% from 1997, roughly 4 times the average for all businesses. In fact, California, with more than 1/3 million Asian American-owned firms has the largest number of Asian American-owned firms of any state in America. As America's companies aim to meet the demands of the emerging markets in America, and Asia, AA NHOPIs, who have the cultural and communications skills to create new opportunities, new jobs, and new investments, are in demand. Given this dramatic growth of AA NHOPI business owners, supplier diversity or the use of minority owned vendors as suppliers, has become a practice that is increasingly important to the success of any business. I want to take this opportunity to commend the National Council of Asian American Business Associations, and presenting sponsor Wells Fargo, in launching the NCAABA Supplier Academy at UCLA on October 14-15, 2009, to ensure that AA NHOPIs will have the cultural and linguistic leadership skills to optimize the resources of the global market, to create sustainable economic change and climate change.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, this August, I had the honor of traveling to Kangwon National University in South Korea, where I was awarded an honorary doctorate in Education. As a former high school teacher, principal, and school board member, education has always been my top priority. I believe education is a powerful investment in our future, and I have continued my pursuit of both learning and teaching during my tenure in Congress. I was humbled to receive the high honor of an honorary doctorate from Kangwon National University, an institution I have come to deeply respect. During my visit to Korea, I met with Prime Minister Seung-Soo Han, whose passion for moving President Myung-Bak Lee's ``Low Carbon, Green Growth'' initiative forward is something that I admire. As a representative from Silicon Valley, which is at the forefront in our country's efforts in renewable energy, I know the importance of Korea's investments in green technologies. Many individuals helped make my visit to Korea successful and memorable, and I would like to thank the following people who helped to make my degree and visit possible: Prime Minister Seung-Soo Han; Foreign Minister Myung-Hwan Yu; Kangwon Province Governor Jin-Sun Kim; Kangwon National University President Yong-Jung Kwon; National Assemblywoman Nak-Kyun Shin; National Assemblywoman Mi-Kyung Lee; U.S. Ambassador to Korea Kathleen Stephens; former Korean Ambassador to the U.S. Tae-Sik Lee; American Chamber of Commerce in Korea Chairman David Ruch; House of Sharing, Comfort Women Survivors and Grandma Koon-Ja Kim; Sokcho City Mayor Yong-Sang Chae; and Korean American Voters' Council of New York and New Jersey Leader Dong-Suk Kim. During my visit, I delivered the following remarks upon accepting my honorary doctorate at Kangwon National University. It is a pleasure to be here with you here in Korea at Kangwon National University. Thank you for the warm welcome and the kind introduction, and for this wonderful honor. I'd like to thank the President, distinguished members of the faculty, and students of Kangwon University. I would also like to express my appreciation to Governor Jin-Sun Kim of Kangwon province, and Mr. Dong-Suk Kim of the Korean American Voters' Council. This is my fourth time in this great country, and each time I leave with stronger friendships and a deeper understanding and connection to Korea. My visits to Korea and the warmth of the Korean people have made a long lasting impression me. This trip is especially meaningful to me, and I am extremely honored to receive an honorary doctorate in education here at Kangwon National University. As a former teacher, principal, and school board member, education has played an integral role throughout my life, so receiving this degree is very personal. Education is my passion, and I believe it is the most powerful tool and investment we can provide children with. Quality education assures the economic competitiveness of any nation, advances the arts and sciences, and provides the means for people to achieve individual success. I have worked hard towards providing every child with a high quality education, both as a former educator and as a Member of Congress. Education also means being able to teach others in order to learn from past mistakes, and flourish as a society. If society cannot look back and learn from previous mistakes, trust and progress between nations is stunted. To this end, I have spent a portion of my career in Congress educating and working on a historical issue that has grown very close to my heart: that of the 200,000 sex slaves known as comfort women. These comfort women, many of whom were Korean, were forced into dehumanizing sexual slavery, forced to serve up to 30 soldiers a day in some cases. They suffered serious physical, emotional, and psychological damages as a result. Yesterday, I had the chance to visit with some of the comfort women survivors. I have met these women on several occasions, both in the United States and in Korea at the House of Sharing, and each time I meet them, I am renewed by how strong they are. I cannot emphasize enough how much I admire their perseverance. The hope of the comfort women is an extremely modest one: That the government of Japan formally acknowledges, apologizes and accepts full historical responsibility for this crime. To date, they have still not received such a formal apology. That is why I introduced House Resolution 121, which calls on Japan to do so. I believe the U.S. must have a strong founding in historical reconciliation. For example, in 1988, Congress passed, and President Ronald Reagan signed into law, H.R. 442, the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which was a formal apology to United States citizens of Japanese ancestry who were unjustly put into internment camps during World War II. As someone who was put into an internment camp as an infant, I know firsthand that we must not be ignorant of the past, and that reconciliation through government actions to admit error are the only ones likely to be long lasting. Our government made a mistake, but they apologized for it, and healed many wounds as a result. Today, fewer than 300 comfort women are alive and the number is dwindling as they pass away. They want, and deserve, an official apology. I cannot put into words how grateful I was when H. Res. 121 received overwhelming support in the 110th Congress--first during its markup held under Chairman Tom Lantos' leadership, and then during its debate and final passage before the House on July 30, 2007. The fact that H. Res. 121 received no opposition during its consideration and passed unanimously attests to its importance and relevance today. By doing so, the House sent a profound message to the government of Japan that the United States takes the issue of the comfort women very seriously. Immediately after its passage, I rushed to the House gallery, where Yong Soo Lee, a surviving comfort woman, was watching floor proceedings. We shared a tearful embrace, one I will never forget. She repeated ``Thank you. . . . thank you . . .'', and I could see in her face that she felt, maybe for the first time in her life, some sense of relief. Despite the struggles I may have faced in pushing forward this resolution, and the criticism I received from the government of Japan, seeing Yong Soo Lee immediately reminded me again why I chose to tackle this issue. While the resolution was successful, unfortunately it has not forced the government of Japan to act. The comfort women deserve to have their dignity and honor restored to them. It is not too late for Japan to issue a sincere and official apology, while these women are still alive. I am hopeful that an international awareness has spread about comfort women, particularly in Australia, the Philippines, and Canada, where comfort women resolutions similar to H. Res. 121 have been introduced and some passed. We must continue to advocate for a formal apology for the comfort women as a matter of fundamental justice. It is an honor to be here in Korea to continue educating about this chapter in history, and to educate others about the importance of an apology for the women. Moral justice and education have been the two guiding principles I have followed during my fight for the comfort women. I believe education is a tool that can also be used to fight another battle: global warming. Climate change is the most significant threat to our environment today and is one of the greatest challenges that humans face. The overwhelming scientific evidence makes clear that global warming is a real phenomenon, and that human activities play a significant role. Twenty of the hottest years in recorded history occurred since the 1980s. Glaciers and permafrost are vanishing. Weather patterns are shifting. Migration patterns are being disrupted. Global warming presents mankind with a new kind of problem. To fight global warming, dramatic changes will be needed in transportation, energy production, public policy, and human behavior world wide. As a former teacher, I feel education will be essential to allowing those changes to happen, which is why I introduced the Global Warming Education Act, H.R. 1926. The bill will broaden America's understanding of human-induced global warming, short and long term consequences, and potential solutions. Widespread understanding of this phenomenon will play a significant role in our ability to address a crisis that tangibly and immediately impacts every single human being. It is vital that people of all walks of life possess sufficient understanding of the issue so that each and every one of us may play a role in defending the health of our planet. I learned that Korea is becoming a world example and leader of using ``green'' technology to also address these threats. The U.S. is also an active leader in this effort, and this is just one example of many of the common values that our two countries share. I commend you for leading on the green technology front, and encourage you to educate your peers about the threats that we as humans face. In closing, Korea holds a very special place in my heart. The relationship our two countries share is vitally important and continues to grow. I have many close friends here in Korea, and I appreciate the welcoming spirit of the Korean people each time I visit. Receiving this honorary doctorate is a lifelong dream of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be presented with such an honor. Again, I would like to thank the President, faculty, and the students of Kangwon National University for bestowing this honor upon me.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, people of color, both women and men, have historically been underrepresented in the medical profession, biomedical and biotechnology research, and clinical trials in the United States. As we move toward an era of personalized medicine, we realize that small differences between people become critically important in devising more effective, tailored treatments to improve and extend quality of life while helping doctors and patients better prevent and treat disease. Language and cultural barriers, stigma about participating in studies, and a historical lack of diverse community involvement in clinical trials by industry must be overcome so that all of our communities can be assured that they equally participate in the future of medicine. To address this problem, we need more studies that reflect the changing face of the HIV/AIDS and other epidemics, both on effective messaging and education campaigns for the diverse group of affected individuals and on possible vaccines. One notable example of this kind of effort is the Gender Race and Clinical Experience (GRACE) study conducted by Tibotec Therapeutics, part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies. The GRACE study, findings from which were recently presented at the International AIDS Society conference in South Africa, is the largest study to date to examine gender and race differences in response to an HIV therapy. In addition, the trial was designed to help overcome some of the barriers, identified by the advisors, which have historically deterred women and people of color from participating in clinical studies, including stigma, lack of child care, transportation and personal support systems. Based upon advisor and community input, study participants could obtain assistance to cover costs associated with their participation in the study, including funds for travel and childcare, as well as food vouchers. Through innovative strategies like these, the GRACE study was able to enroll seventy percent women, sixty percent African Americans and twenty-two percent Latinos. I believe that the GRACE study is significant for reasons beyond just its clinical results. Studies like this, which are designed to overcome the barriers to participation and engage affected communities and providers show that with greater industry effort, meaningful numbers of women and racial and ethnic minorities can be enrolled in important clinical trials. For example, studies in the United States and across the world are seeking an answer to the devastating HIV/AIDS epidemic. The epidemic is changing its face, spreading into new populations and presenting new challenges to education and outreach efforts. In the United States, women are increasingly affected by HIV/AIDS, accounting for more than one quarter of all new HIV/AIDS diagnoses, with African American and Latina women representing seventy-nine percent of women living with the disease. HIV/AIDS disproportionately impacts our African American and Latino communities, and the infection rate is rising among Asian American and Pacific Islanders as well. In my home state of California, there are almost 150,000 people living with AIDS, and Latinos represent about one-quarter of these cases. There are over 60,000 people living with HIV/AIDS in the greater Los Angeles area alone. In terms of new HIV infections, Latina women are infected at a rate almost four times as high as white women. African Americans in my district are also highly impacted by HIV/AIDS. I commend Tibotec Therapeutics, Johnson & Johnson, and all researchers and companies actively engaged in diversifying their clinical trials and creating new relationships with affected communities. As Congress moves forward with health reform, with outcome and effectiveness-based reimbursement models, we must strongly encourage the expansion of efforts industry and academia are making to reflect the diversity of our nation in their workforce and clinical trials.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 707 and for designating the week of September 13, 2009 as Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. I commend Representative Jared Polis, sponsor of the resolution, and the House Education and Labor Committee for recognizing the importance of literacy among adults and families, particularly in relation to the economic well being of these individuals. Having been an educator for over 30 years, I am keenly aware that education and literacy are crucial to helping individuals achieve economic success. It has been shown that parental involvement is a key indicator to a child's success, and parental engagement increases as educational attainment increases. Sadly, however, many over 90 million adults in the United States lack the literacy, numeracy, or English language skills needed to succeed at home, in the workplace, and in society. These adults are unable to be involved in their children's education, which perpetuates the cycle of illiteracy. Of this group, here are still over 54.8 million people who speak a language other than English at home. According to the Census Bureau, between 2000 and 2005, the native-born Limited English Proficient population nearly doubled, and it is increasing at a higher rate than the immigrant population. In spite of this growth, there continue to be 1- to 3-year waitlists for English literacy education in many areas, leaving employers and communities with opportunities to invest in the education of their workforce. As we work to address adult education and family literacy, we remember the need to extend literacy and education programs to new populations to help them fully integrate into our society. To help achieve this goal, I introduced H.R. 3249, the Strengthen and Unite Communities with Civics Education and English Skills Act of 2009. H.R. 3249 seeks to provide individuals with civics education and basic education programs and assist local communities in this integration process through impact aid and community-based solutions. This legislation will also provide businesses with tax credits for providing English-as-a-second-language programs to their employees, incentivize teachers with tax credits when they teach English Language Learners, and authorize more funding for such instruction. I urge all of my colleagues to support H. Res. 707 and the laudable goal of designating the week of September 13, 2009 as Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. The resolution encourages people across the United States to support programs to assist those in need of adult education and family literacy programs, and I urge my colleagues to do so not only by supporting the resolution, but also by supporting the Strengthen and Unite Communities with Civics Education and English Skills Act of 2009, which would forge productive dialogues in our country about newcomers and provide real and concrete solutions to our communities by giving them the means and resources to help families learn English and integrate into U.S. society.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to express my support for repealing the United States military's ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy. I want to thank my colleague, Congressman Patrick Murphy for organizing this Special Order Hour on the importance and urgent need for repealing ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell.'' I have long been a friend and an ally of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community and I am committed to the cause of equality. I understand first hand discrimination based on racial prejudice, war hysteria, and a failure of political leadership. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 on February 19th, 1942 which forced 120,000 Japanese Americans into internment camps during World War II. Many of these families, including mine, lost their property and possessions during the several years they were jailed behind barbed wire. Once again we find ourselves in perilous times. Our country and our civil liberties are constantly in jeopardy after the attacks of September 11th launched our nation in a ``war'' against terror. It is more important than ever to speak up against unjust policies. There is much to be learned from my experience during World War II, as well as the experience of other groups about the destructive consequences of discrimination. For over 60 years, it has been the U.S. military's official policy to exclude individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identification. Reflecting one of our country's last officially sanctioned forms of bigotry, this policy stigmatizes patriotic Americans by excluding them from military service. In 1993, President Clinton introduced the ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy as a `compromise' when he was not able to overcome Congressional opposition to lifting the ban on LGBT participation in the armed forces. Unfortunately, this policy works to silence LGBT personnel among the ranks of our military, making them invisible to the American public they bravely volunteer to protect and defend. Notwithstanding the ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy, countless veterans have served and continue to serve selflessly in the defense of our nation. Yet while thousands of our men and women continually serve to protect our freedom and liberty and put their lives on the line to do so, many are dismissed once their orientation or identification becomes known. This policy is not only unfair to LGBT individuals, it also hinders our military's ability to perform its mission. Despite our need for language specialists, almost 800 mission-critical troops and at least 59 Arabic and nine Farsi linguists have been discharged under ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' in the last five years solely based on their sexual orientation. It is the right of all Americans to live open lives within society, free from prejudice, intolerance, and fear, irrespective of race, ethnicity, age and perceived sexual orientation and gender. The contributions made by LGBT veterans, and those in active duty in an atmosphere hostile to them, underscores the tremendous sacrifices they make to serve this nation and I commend and thank them for their commitment and perseverance. I have the honor of knowing Ashwin Madia, a former Marine Corps JAG officer now living in Minnesota, who was one of the first attorneys to successfully defend a fellow Marine from treatment under the ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy and who told me about his work on this case. If convicted this Marine would have faced an ``Other Than Honorable Discharge'' and lost his benefits. When this Marine returned to service, he was welcomed by his comrades and was treated with respect and honor. Sadly, since the ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy went into effect in 1994, nearly 13,000 servicemembers were not as fortunate and were discharged. Today there are over one million gay and lesbian veterans and over 65,000 LGBT members of the military serving in fear of being discharged for simply being themselves. Repealing ``Don't Ask Don't Tell'' is long overdue. On this the military courts have spoken, military leaders have spoken, servicemembers have spoken, and our President has spoken. Today Congress is speaking as well. The Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2009, H.R. 1283, has 176 cosponsors united and committed to ending this discriminatory policy. It is time to support our troops by honoring their right to live and serve as their true selves. It's time to ask, it's time to tell, and it's time to get over it. As policy makers, we are often faced with choices between what is urgent and what is important. But it's a false choice. The urgent issues of the day should never drown out what's important. Full equality for every person under the law is both urgent and important. Thank you to our active military and to our veterans for their service to this great country. It is in your honor that this Congress will ensure every women and man wishing to serve can do so, without fear or prejudice. I look forward to working with my colleagues to end discrimination of LGBT people in the workplace and in our immigration policies as well expanding hate crimes to include perceived sexual orientation and gender identity and providing Federal recognition of the commitment between same-sex couples.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. I want to thank Mr. Carson for this opportunity. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 215, congratulating the Minority Business Development Agency on its 40th anniversary and its achievements in fostering minority businesses in the United States. Since its inception in 1969 by President Richard Nixon's Executive Order 11458, the MBDA has operated as the only Federal agency created to serve minority-owned businesses through its nationwide network of more than 40 business development centers and hundreds of strategic partners. Over that time, MBDA has served over 625,000 minority-owned businesses and assisted in securing more than $25 billion in loans and bonding, greatly contributing to the growth of our minority-owned businesses and the welfare of our communities in general. I would like to share a couple of success stories of minority-owned businesses and companies from my 15th Congressional District of California in San Jose. First, Mr. and Mrs. Pradeep Aswani, immigrants from India, founded Securematics in Santa Clara, California. In 2002, this IT network solution distributor started with $4 million in revenue. In just 6 years, they grew their company sales to nearly $115 million by exploiting opportunities found while participating in MBDA's forums, facilitated by the Northern California Minority Business Development Center. Another success story, Central Computers, was established in 1986 from very humble beginnings in Santa Clara, California, by Saul and Sherry Yeung, two Chinese Americans who immigrated from Hong Kong. Through their perseverance and resourcefulness, including taking advantage of the services provided by the Northern California Minority Business Enterprise Center, the Yeung family successfully transformed their home apartment operation into the largest independent computer retailer and servicer in the Bay Area, grossing nearly $30 million annually. Last September, MBDA recognized Central Computers as the National Minority Retail Firm of the Year for 2008. The Northern California Minority Business Enterprise Center contributed to both of these successes. Funded by the MBDA and operated by Asian Inc., a nonprofit technical assistance and research organization that aims to strengthen minority communities, this center has assisted many of my district's minority-owned businesses. In fact, the Center participated in my Small Business Resource Fair held last May. Now, these two stories are also prime examples of how successful minority-owned companies can give back to their local communities. Mr. Aswani finds time to mentor many local small business enterprises by providing free business strategy counseling. Saul and Sherry Yeung are significant contributors to local charities, community organizations, and educational institutions, including a $1 million donation to the University of California Berkeley's new Tien Center for East Asian Studies. As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I appreciate the support in introducing this resolution from my fellow Chairs of the congressional minority caucuses--Hispanic Caucus, Black Caucus, and Native American Caucus. We recognize the importance of minority-owned businesses not only as critical economic contributors to our communities but also their significant influence on the well-being of the U.S. economy. Minority groups represent 26.1 percent of the population but only own 11.6 percent of the Nation's businesses and receive only 6.2 percent of total sales. This disparity between minority-owned businesses compared to those nonminority-owned represents a significant loss of economic opportunity for the Nation. If economic parity was achieved, minority- owned businesses would create 16 million jobs, generate $2.5 trillion in gross receipts and an unrealized tax base of more than $100 billion per year. Despite the MBDA's admirable services to foster the growth of minority-owned businesses, many more resources are needed to achieve economic parity now and in the future. By 2050, the U.S. Census Bureau predicts that minorities will comprise more than half of the U.S. population. It is easy to foresee the increased reliance our Nation's economy will have on minority communities and businesses. As difficult as this mission is, I believe the MBDA and its new national director, David Hinson, are up to the challenge. David Hinson brings to the Agency over 20 years of business expertise and academic excellence. Among Director Hinson's new priorities are the creation of a new generation of $100 million revenue-producing minority-owned businesses and fostering the growth of minority-owned businesses in clean energy, in green technology, health care, and information technology. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Minority Business Development Agency for its 40 years of dedicated work, fostering the growth and development of our Nation's minority-owned businesses, and I look forward to continuing to work with the MBDA to ensure the success of its noble endeavors. I would like to thank the Chairs of the congressional minority caucuses for introducing this resolution with me. I appreciate the support of the cosponsors, and I urge my colleagues to join us in supporting H.R. 215. Before I yield back the balance of my time, Mr. Speaker, I would like to express again the local impact that this program has had in my community, not only because I know the two companies and the folks who had done it, but there are many, many more success stories that go untold. And there are yet more potential success stories out there with the continuation of this project.