Rep. Hopgood offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 360.

            A resolution declaring May 2008 as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, The state of Michigan is fortunate to be home to more than 200,000 residents of Asian and Pacific Island descent; and

            Whereas, Asian Pacific Americans comprise one of the fastest growing populations in both the state and the nation; and

            Whereas, The Asian and Pacific Island regions are tremendously diverse; with more than thirty countries, sixteen major ethnic groups, nine languages, and numerous belief systems bringing their culture to Michigan; and

            Whereas, Citizens of Asian and Pacific Island descent, in each generation, have enhanced our culture, quality of life, and economic vitality through leadership, commitments to knowledge and advancement, and dedication to their communities; and

            Whereas, The state of Michigan and the United States of America have been enriched by the contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to all facets of life, including the arts, sciences, business, education, and philanthropy; and

            Whereas, The culture and contributions of our Asian and Pacific Island residents will continue to grow in significance as more Asian Pacific Americans choose to make Michigan their home and as our economy becomes increasingly intertwined with the economies throughout Asia; and

            Whereas, Asian Pacific Americans, through advocating issues of justice and equality, continue to break down the barriers of discrimination, indifference, and intolerance, thereby opening doors for all Asian Pacific Americans; and

            Whereas, Asian Pacific American residents are proudly served in Michigan by many dedicated organizations, including the Governor's Advisory Council on Asian Pacific American Affairs, the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce, the Council of Asian Pacific Americans, Asian American Citizens for Justice, the Asian Pacific American Women's Association, the Mid-Michigan Asian Pacific American Association, the Asian Center, and the Michigan Asian Pacific American Bar Association; and

            Whereas, The state of Michigan takes pride in its cultural diversity and welcomes the opportunity to honor our Asian Pacific American residents for their lasting, expanding, imprint upon our state; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 2008 as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in the state of Michigan.  We encourage all citizens to celebrate the individual and collective contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to this state and to this country.