I was pleased that President George W. Bush. at my request. wrote a message on the occasion of he centennial anniversary of Filipino migration to Hawaii. We must also continue to celebrate and thank the early Filipino migrants who came to work in the sugar plantations of Hawaii and those who fought in support of the United States in World War II. But there is still much more to be done in support of these brave individuals. I have introduced legislation in both the 108th and 109th Congresses advancing the interests of the families of our Filipino World War II veterans. many of whom are still waiting in the Philippines to be reunited with their loved ones living in the United States. Earlier this Congress. I reintroduced the bill that provides for the sons and daughters of our Filipino World War II veterans to receive priority preference in their respective immigration categories. Because of the grassroots support by many in Hawaii and across the country and in the Philippines. I am proud to say that Congress is on the verge of successfully advancing legislation that will enable the children of our Filipino World War II veterans to join their parents in the United States. The objectives of H.R. 901 were included in the Senates version of comprehensive immigration reform legislation. I continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to secure this provision in conference or to pass the freestanding bill. With the waning days of the 109th Congress upon us. we must stay vigilant and continue to urge Congress to make this and all issues affecting Filipino veterans a high priority in our busy Congressional schedule.
Keywords matched
migrants immigration