Congresswoman Lee's Statement on Lunar New Year
For Immediate Release
February 12, 2010
Contact: Ricci Graham
(510) 763-0370
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) released the following statement in commemoration of Lunar New Year, which begins Sunday, February 14, 2010:
“Please join me as we celebrate one of the more joyous times for many Asian and Asian-American cultures – the Lunar New Year. Each year, Asian communities throughout the Ninth Congressional District gather to commemorate what has become a celebrated occasion in Chinatown, one of the most culturally-rich communities in the City of Oakland.
“It is particularly fitting that 2010 is the Year of the Tiger, which are known to be powerful, brave, kind, optimistic, daring and full of feelings – qualities we all must embrace as we work to confront the enormous economic and social challenges facing our country.
“The vibrancy you see in the streets of Oakland’s Chinatown is a testament to the spirit of survival and determination of its residents. The people of Chinatown were forced to overcome legalized discrimination designed to destroy them economically and culturally. Yet through faith, diligence and perseverance, Chinatown has evolved into one of the most cohesive and unified communities in the City of Oakland, and we celebrate those characteristics as we begin a new year.
“My best to all in the Year of the Tiger.”
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