Connecting Congress: Rep. Meng
U.S. Representative Grace Meng (D-NY6) connects her work in Washington to her constituents in west, central and northeast Queens.
On the Trans-Pacific Partnership, Congresswoman Meng said she was “disappointed” that fast track was approved earlier this year and unless something has “profoundly changed” in the agreement, she will be opposed to it on the basis of its effects on the environment and human rights.
“Our duty as Americans, and as Asian Americans, should be to make sure that whatever country is involved, that we are able to uphold environmental standards and worker rights that people in America, including Asian Americans, have worked so hard to improve and uphold. These are non-negotiable.”
She also spoke about a recent vote in the House to eliminate the use of the word “oriental” in legislation. The congresswoman said it’s “rare” that both sides of the aisle agree on any piece of legislation, but she was proud to have both Democratic and Republican support.
“You know, a lot of people who use this term may not mean it in a derogatory way. “Oriental,” this term has no bearing on where one is from. So as opposed to using a term like French or English or Australian, “Oriental” means nothing, and is a very old fashioned word. It’s derogatory and we just think that Asian-American is the best replacement for that.”
You can connect with Congresswoman Meng by emailing her (follow this link to verify your address in her district) or engaging with her on Twitter.
