Welcome to the White House's celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage month – a time when the country recognizes and honors the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

America is strongest when all Americans have the opportunity to make the most of their lives, to contribute their talents to our country. That is why President Clinton has fought consistently to keep the American Dream alive for all Americans. He's balanced the budget, strengthened our nation commitment to education, made college affordable to all our citizens, improved access to health care, and built new ties of international trade. In doing so, he has opened the doors of opportunity even wider to Americans of every race, color, and station in life.

During the month of May, we celebrate the important role Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have played in efforts to build a strong and successful America, and highlight ways the Clinton Administration has sought to address specific needs within this community. This year's celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage month is enhanced by the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders which seeks to improve the quality of life for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The Initiative was established by Executive Order in June of 1999 (see photo above).

In the following pages, we hope to give you a glimpse of how the Clinton-Gore Administration is working to address issues of concern to the Asian American and Pacific Islander Community. You will learn more about:

• The White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and how this effort seeks to address the needs within the AAPI community.

• The record number of appointments of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to some of the highest offices of government in the Clinton Administration.

• An overview of the President's accomplishments on behalf of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

• The President's Historic Trip to South Asia.

• Asian Pacific American Heritage activities throughout the country.

Join the White House as we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and work on behalf of the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and indeed all people to build the world's strongest and most diverse democracy for the 21st Century