Cogratulatory Statement from President Biden
U.S. Representatives paying homage to ancestors
Recognizing contributions to the United States
Thanks to the hard work of immigration ancestors who took their first steps in Hawaii sugar cane fields today (January 13), exactly 120 years later, the Korean community was warmly congratulated by the Federal Assembly.
On the occasion of “Korean Day in the Americas,” government agencies and parliaments across the country are spreading their voices to honor the immigration history of Koreans and pray for further development.
President Joe Biden said in a statement on the 12th, “One hundred and 20 years ago today, a group of 102 Korean men, women and children arrived in Hawaii in search of a new start,” adding, “Today, Korean-Americans continue to shape and unite our country, strengthening every industry and every community and contributing their unique talents to our American story.”
Biden also said “From serving our country in uniform and advocating for civil rights, to breaking new ground in arts and sciences, opening new businesses, serving in our hospitals and health centers, and making history for Team USA in the Olympics, the contributions of Korean-Americans enrich our lives every day and lift our nation to new heights.”
President Biden wrapped up his congratulatory message by saying, “Katchi Kapshida (Let’s go together in Korean) for the American dream. Last part was said in Korean, not English.
U.S. Representatives, Young Kim (CA-40) expressed her respect for the 120th anniversary of immigration and Korean Day in a free speech on the 11th.
“Koreans first stepped on U.S. soil as workers in 1903 and have expanded their influence here to the Federal Assembly,” Rep. Kim said. “In particular, I have infinite gratitude for many Koreans who suffered from the Korean War for a new life.” On the 12th, the next day, Congressman Michelle Park Steele (CA-45) wore hanbok and drew attention to commemorate Korean Day at the House of Representatives meeting hall.
Steele said, “As a Korean congresswomen representing the residents, I once again appreciate the successful immigration history of the Korean community. I believe it will continue to contribute greatly to the success of the United States.”
U.S. Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), a district of LA Korean Town, said, “We would like to congratulate Koreans on the Korean Day, a historic day of Korean immigration, and sincerely congratulate them on the passion and efforts of generations of Koreans with fellow lawmakers.”
Near the U.S. Capitol, on the 12th, a reception was held to celebrate Korean Day attended by lawmakers such as Andy Kim (NJ-3), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), and Judy Chu (CA-28).
“We are here because of the courage and efforts of our parents and grandparents,” Rep. Andy Kim said in his speech. “The next 120 years are in our hands and we will all have to think about our roles.”
At the same time, members of the Korean Research Group, including U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK), sent congratulatory messages to celebrate Korean Day and the 120th anniversary of immigration. Former U.S. Representative Carolyn Maloney, who is familiar to Koreans with the declaration of Kimchi Day, also said, “I console Koreans for their hard work.”
In the message, they applauded the efforts of many Koreans who contributed to the development of the U.S. and also offered words of blessing to prepare a new turning point in the relationship between South Korea and the U.S.
Meanwhile, a celebration meeting will be held at the LA City Council, on the 13th, hosted by Councilman John Lee, with major Korean community figures such as James Ahn, Los Angeles Korean Foundation Chairman Lee Byung-man, and Kim Young-wan, Consul General of South Korea, Los Angeles.
Inseong Choi
