Last week, the House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution recognizing the career and service of former San Jose mayor, congressman, commerce and transportation secretary Norman Mineta: Norm Mineta honored by House resolution.Sponsored by Rep. Mike Honda, House Resolution 1377 "honors the accomplishments and legacy of a great American hero" for his groundbreaking contributions to the nation. Here are some statements issued by the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus on the occasion:
Rep. Mike Honda (CA-15),CAPAC Chair: "Norm Mineta is a champion in Silicon Valley and a national icon, and I was honored to author this resolution for my dear friend and mentor, along with Rep. Judy Chu. As an Asian American, Norm has broken through many glass ceilings, paving the way for Asian American and Pacific Islanders to claim our full rights as Americans. This resolution is a great opportunity to remind ourselves of what a major player Norm has been on a national level—Chairman of the Transportation Committee in Congress, Secretary of Commerce for President Clinton, and Secretary of Transportation for President Bush during the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks. From his time as Mayor of San Jose to his rise to the top levels of power in Washington, DC, Norm has remained rooted in social justice and love of country. Norm Mineta's undying patriotism and loyalty to the United States and our Constitution is an example for all Americans."He already has an airport named after him. But that's not enough. This is apparently the first time in recent history that the House has honored a living former member of Congress with a resolution. Norm Mineta is just that awesome.
Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-32), CAPAC Executive Board Member: "Secretary Norman Mineta is a role model for Americans of every color, background and creed. His story is a story of sacrifice, hardship, dedication and triumph. I can think of no one more deserving for this body to honor then Secretary Mineta. He is an inspiration to many, including me, and we owe a debt of gratitude for all he has done to put Asian Americans on the map. And it is because of his leadership that America is a better and stronger nation today!"
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo (GU), CAPAC Secretary: "I commend Norman Mineta for his years of public service and dedication to promoting civil rights and liberty for all Americans. As the founder and former chairman of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, Norm worked to inform Members of Congress of the unique challenges facing Asian Pacific Americans in our nation. I further appreciated Norm's work to modernize and improve our infrastructure system in America as the longest serving Secretary of Transportation. I join the CAPAC in honoring Norm's service and accomplishments, and on behalf of the people of Guam, I wish him a sincere Un dangkulo na Si Yu'os Ma'ase."
Congressman Al Green (TX-09), CAPAC Executive Board Member: "It is with great pleasure that I honor a former colleague in Congress, Norman Mineta. Former Congressman Mineta has obtained numerous respected leadership positions where he was the first Asian American to take presence in that office. He was the first Asian American Mayor of a major United States city where he was able to strengthen ties and provide leadership, including the leadership needed to span the racial divide. Former Congressman Mineta is a strong and dedicated person with the insight needed to serve all people. His accomplishments remind us to push ourselves to fight from total justice for the masses and social justice for all classes. H.Res. 1377 represents the first time Congress formally recognizes former Congressman Mineta for his accomplishments and dedication to serve our country. I am honored that our nation will pay tribute to his greatness."
Congressman David Wu (OR-01), CAPAC Executive Board Member: "Norm Mineta, a pioneering public servant and my dear friend and mentor, has served this country and the Asian American and Pacific Islander community with great distinction and unparalleled humility. Norm has many firsts to his name: the first Asian American mayor of a major U.S. city, the first chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, and the first Asian American member of a presidential Cabinet. These milestones dot a career that has been dedicated to bettering lives through efficient transportation, expanding civil rights for all, and strengthening Asian American and Pacific Islander participation in public life. I am privileged to call Norm a friend, and I thank him for his tremendous and longstanding leadership on behalf of our community."