A JOINT MEMORIAL

DECLARING MARCH 2 TO BE "ASIAN AMERICAN DAY" AT THE LEGISLATURE.

     WHEREAS, there are over thirty thousand Asians living in New Mexico; and

     WHEREAS, Asians in New Mexico come from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Iraq, Iran, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, Tibet and Vietnam; and

     WHEREAS, Asians have worked on the railroads and in agriculture in New Mexico since the nineteenth century; and

     WHEREAS, Asians in New Mexico have fought bravely in World War I, World War II, the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, the Gulf War and in Afghanistan and in Iraq and have received medals of honor, purple hearts and other military commendations; and

     WHEREAS, Asians have contributed greatly to the economy of New Mexico through their labor, industry, businesses and purchasing power; and

     WHEREAS, Asians are contributing their unique culture, customs and traditions to the already richly diverse culture of New Mexico;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that March 2, 2005 is declared "Asian American Day" at the legislature.