Speech #900295044

Mr. Speaker. from its birth. America has been the mecca for immigrants. People have come to our shores from all parts of the world. seekingand usually flndinga new life. In the process. they have contributed to the greatness of the United States through their energies and talents. During the recent celebration of the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii. tribute was paid to those first brave voyagers who ventured from their homes in Asia to the Hawaiian Islands. The contributions which these pioneers from the Far East have made to life in Hawaii will always be a part of the unique culture found in the Island State. One of the most distinguished and wellknown elder members of Hawaiis Japanese community is 86yearold Tetsuo Toyama. who helped to plan the 100th anniversary celebration. Mr. Toyama has played a major role in improving the status of the immigrant in Hawaii. and for this he was recently presented an award by the Emperor of Japan. A strong advocate of the American way of life. Mr. Toyama helped to organize the Naturalization Encouragement Association of Honolulu shortly after the passage of the WalterMcCarran Act in 1952 to assist immigrant residents in obtaining American citizenship. Then to lend further assistance to the newly naturalized citizens. he organized the Citizens Study Club of Oahu. Both of these organizations have been noted for their dynamic programs and have remained active to this day. Proud of his American citizenship. this remarkable octogenarian is also the author of a soontobe published book entitled "Hachijyunen KaikoShi"-"My Life. 80 Years." The English version of the book will be called "Free Life in Hawaii." I believe my colleagues will find of great interest the reminiscences of this revered Hawaii citizen. and I submit for the feature article about Mr.