Statement from NYC councilmember John Liu in response to press inquiries today:
For Immediate Release
April 9, 2009
Contact: Sharon Lee, 646-879-3289
Sent via Internet
*** Statement ***
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TEXAS REP. BETTY BROWN MUST FORMALLY APOLOGIZE OR RESIGN IMMEDIATELY
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CITY HALL, NY – New York City Council Member John C. Liu released the following letter in response to questions regarding comments made by State Representative Betty Brown (R-Texas): “Rather than everyone here having to learn Chinese — I understand it’s a rather difficult language — do you think that it would behoove you and your citizens to adopt a name that we could deal with more readily here?”
The text of CM Liu’s letter is attached below.
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April 9, 2009
Representative Betty Brown
Texas House of Representatives
Room E1.404, Capitol Extension
Austin, TX 78701
RE: Suggestion to adopt new names
Dear Representative Brown:
Like many Asian Americans, I am proud to be a citizen of the United States. We are indeed American, regardless of whether our names sound or are “American enough” for you. It is outrageous and insulting for you to suggest it would “behoove” us to adopt another name, to give up our birthright and a part of our own identity, in order to exercise our right to vote.
Considering certain people as second-class citizens who don’t necessarily “fit” into a particular gender, race, sexuality or
socioeconomic status is perhaps an America of the past. Here in the 21st century, Americans are proud of the advancement we have made in ensuring equal opportunities for all people, regardless of background. Judge us not by our names, but by our character and civic participation.
Your disappointing comments today were not only offensive and out-of touch, but indeed “un-American” by contradicting everything our country stands for. Perhaps it would indeed behoove the great State of Texas to boast of a legislature with honorable elected officials who are not obstacles toward equal opportunity and democratic participation. I urge you to either issue a formal apology for your misguided comments or resign immediately.
Sincerely,
John C. Liu
Council Member
The AP has picked up the story on Liu standing up to her.
By Justin on April 9th, 2009