CAPAC Applauds Induction of Chinese Railroad Workers to U.S. Department of Labor’s Hall of Honor
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez formally inducted Chinese Railroad Workers into the Labor Hall of Honor. Approximately 12,000 Chinese laborers helped to complete the First Transcontinental Railroad between 1865 and 1869. They are the first Asian Americans to be represented in the Labor Hall of Honor since its establishment in 1988. Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements:
Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:
“I am proud to see the Chinese Railroad Workers recognized for the contributions they made to our country. In the face of dangerous labor conditions and discriminatory treatment, these immigrant laborers gave their blood, sweat, and tears to connect our country from coast-to-coast. They created the backbone of our nation’s infrastructure and paved the way for America’s prosperity. I applaud Labor Secretary Tom Perez and Deputy Secretary Chris Lu for their leadership to ensure these stories are part of the greater American narrative.”
Congressman Mike Honda (CA-17), CAPAC Chair Emeritus:
“I commend Secretary Perez for recognizing the pivotal role that Asian Americans played in creating the vital infrastructure that is the transcontinental railroad. Their toil and labor helped produce one of the greatest engineering feats in American history. These 12,000 Chinese immigrants laid the foundation for modern day unions. Their courage to organize and fight for safe working conditions, demand to be treated with respect, and be paid a fair wage has led to many improvements in employment for all Americans. I salute these workers, and Secretary Perez, for acknowledging their efforts and heroism. I am proud that these Chinese railroad workers have been inducted into the Department of Labor’s Hall of Honor.”
Congressman Eni Faleomavaega (AS):
“I am pleased to hear that today, as we honor the contributions of Asian Pacific Americans in this month of May, U.S. Secretary of Labor Perez inducted approximately 12,000 Chinese immigrant laborers into the Labor Hall of Fame. Nearly 145 years after the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad on May 10, 1869, we pay tribute to these pioneers. Remaining steadfast and faithful through challenges, they boldly advocated for fair treatment and paved the way for the American value of equal opportunity. As Asian Pacific Americans, we are privileged to share in their heritage. Furthermore, as Americans, we all share in the greatness of a Nation that they helped to build.”
Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06):
“Being part of this induction ceremony was a tremendous honor. These workers played an integral role in the growth of our nation and they’re a key part of American history. Despite the dangerous and challenging working conditions they were forced to endure, these individuals worked tirelessly to help build our country. 145 years after the building of the railroad was completed, I’m proud to salute the long overdue recognition that they’ve finally received.”
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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.
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