We, the undersigned organizations and individuals, are writing to bring your attention to an important milestone in American history that is fast approaching - the 80th anniversary of the repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act on December 17, 2023. This date holds great significance for the Chinese and Asian Pacific American communities across the country, as it marks the end of a dark era of discrimination and injustice. 

As we reflect on the impact of the Chinese Exclusion Act, it becomes evident that its effects were far-reaching and devastating. For over two generations, this act tore apart families, denied the Chinese their citizenship and thus their voting rights, and subjected them to discrimination, hate, riots, and even murder. The Chinese community in America, as a result, suffered greatly, and the scars of this legislation continue to be felt to this day. 

In recent years, we have witnessed the power of official apologies in acknowledging past wrongs and promoting healing and reconciliation. In 2022, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the signing of Executive Order 9066 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the White House issued a well-received presidential proclamation apologizing for the harm caused to Japanese Americans. This gesture of remorse came 34 years after the US Congress passed a law in 1988 to apologize and provide reparations to the Japanese American community. Similarly, in 2011 and 2012, the US Senate and House passed resolutions of regret apologizing for the harm the Chinese Exclusion Act has caused to Chinese Americans. 

However, the Chinese and Asian American communities are still awaiting an official apology from the White House for the Chinese Exclusion Act. Such an apology would not only acknowledge the historic wrong committed against our communities but also serve as a powerful step towards healing and unity. It would send a clear message that the United States stands against discrimination, racism, hate, and all forms of injustice. 

We deeply appreciate the consistent efforts by this White House to stand with AAPI communities. We remember vividly that in his first week in the White House, on January 26, 2021, President Biden issued a memorandum condemning and combating racism, xenophobia, and intolerance against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. We also remember President Joe Biden signing into law the Covid-19 Hate Crimes Act on May 20, 2021, which passed through Congress in a rare show of bipartisanship. Furthermore, on January 17, 2023, the Biden Administration released its first-ever "National Strategy to Advance Equity, Justice, and Opportunity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Communities." 

On this momentous occasion, we urge you to issue a statement of apology on behalf of the White House, recognizing the pain and suffering caused by the Chinese Exclusion Act and expressing a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. By doing so, you will not only honor the resilience and contributions of our communities but also demonstrate the United States' unwavering dedication to justice and equality. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to your positive response and the opportunity to work together towards a brighter future for all Americans. 

Sincerely yours, 

Signed organizations and individuals