Press Release
AALDEF: Norman Mineta Was a Champion for Justice
NEW YORK — The Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF) issued the following statement in response to the passing of Secretary Norman Mineta. Secretary Mineta served as Mayor of San Jose, Representative for California’s 13th and 15th districts, and the U.S. Secretary of Transportation under President George W. Bush. AALDEF honored Secretary Mineta with the Justice in Action Award in 1994.
“Secretary Norman Mineta was a good friend to AALDEF and a true champion for justice. In the 80s, we were honored to testify in support of then Congressman Mineta’s bill to provide redress for Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II. Every step forward he made in his career, Secretary Mineta never forgot where he came from. He served his community, his city, and his country well, and he paved the way for another generation of Asian American public servants who are now serving in record numbers. Secretary Mineta leaves an indelible mark on Asian American history, which we celebrate this month. We honor his memory and we mourn the loss of our dear friend,” says Margaret Fung, Executive Director of Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF).
###
For additional information, contact:
Stuart J. Sia
Communications Director
212.966.5932 x203
ssia@aaldef.org