WASHINGTON – June is Immigrant Heritage Month. To mark the occasion, Caucus and Council Chairs of the Democratic National Committee issued the following statements to reaffirm the Democratic Party’s strong support of immigrants and to celebrate the many positive contributions immigrants and their children have made to our country.  

DNC AAPI Caucus Chair Bel Leong-Hong:  “The very fabric of our country is bound by the diverse ethnicities that make up each and every community. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have contributed to those communities across the country. From starting small businesses, to service to our country at home and in the battlefields, to dedicated health services, and innovating in science and technology, to sharing music and art, the American story has been deeply affected by our rich heritage. During Immigrant Heritage Month, we recognize the sacrifices that our country’s immigrants have made in defending and shaping this nation into what it is today, as well as the role that they play in moving America forward. We must be continually committed to electing leaders like our president, who will fight for all Americans, instead of those who seek to demonize us on the basis of race or religion for political gain.” 

DNC Hispanic Caucus Chair Iris Martinez:  “The positive contributions of Hispanic immigrants and their families to our economy, culture, and community are immeasurable.  Their devotion to our country can be seen in every community across our nation. As we celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month, it should remind us that we are a nation of immigrants. We must continue to fight for leaders who embrace our growing diversity, and who understand that our country’s prosperity has always depended on the energy, ideas and enthusiasm of new Americans hungry for the chance to work for a brighter future.”

DNC Ethnic Council Chair Dr. James Zogby: “My mother loved to remind us growing up that when her family came to America over a century ago, it was the Democratic Party that welcomed them and helped them to settle in this New World. That is what our party did then and that is what we still do. Immigration is central to America's story, just as supporting immigrants is central to our party's story. It defines who we are and what we have represented to the millions who have traveled to our shore seeking freedom and opportunity. I am so pleased that our party is honoring Immigrant Heritage Month, and I encourage Americans of every background to celebrate the many contributions of immigrants and their families.”

DNC Black Caucus Chair Virgie Rollins: “African diaspora immigrant families continue to shape our nation and enrich our culture. The number of African American immigrants in the United States has more than doubled since 1980. They came here carrying their hopes for a brighter future, and ready to make their unique contributions to the melting pot we know as America. As a result our economy is stronger and our culture is more vibrant. As Democrats we honor Immigrant Heritage Month because we believe diversity is our great strength. We will continue to fight to give everyone in our country, no matter their ethnicity, a fair shot at the American Dream.”