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California Senate unanimously adopts resolution marking 120th anniversary of Korean American immigration
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Summary
The California State Senate adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 6 (SCR 6) by Sen. Choi recognizing the 120th anniversary of Korean American immigration. The chamber voiced broad praise for Korean American contributions and noted ongoing challenges such as discrimination; the resolution passed by recorded vote, 31-0.
The California State Senate unanimously adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 6 on a recorded vote of 31-0 to recognize the 120th anniversary of Korean American immigration to the United States.
Senator Choi, who introduced the resolution from the majority leader's desk, told colleagues the anniversary "is not just a reflection of history, but, a commemoration of the, immense contributions that the Korean Americans have made to our nation's progress, culture, and value." He asked senators to support the measure as a tribute to the "enduring spirit of Korean Americans."
The resolution and floor discussion framed the action as both a celebration of cultural and economic contributions and a prompt to address continuing challenges faced by the community. Senators across regions described large Korean American populations in their districts, highlighted small-business and cultural ties, and recalled military service. "Korean Americans have contributed in every field, business, science, education, public service, and the art," Choi said. Senator Weiner said his district is home to about "12,000 Korean Americans" and pointed to a vibrant restaurant scene; Senator D'Araso noted Koreatown's long history and cultural role in Los Angeles; Senator Ottigin cited Koreatown and cultural institutions in the East Bay.
Speakers also referenced veterans and federal action on benefits: Senator Grove noted that Congress and the President in 2023 passed the Valor Act, which she said allows certain Korean soldiers who fought alongside U.S. forces in the Vietnam War to access Department of Veterans Affairs benefits. Several senators referenced personal or family ties to Korea in urging support.
After the vote, Senator Choi introduced several guests on the floor, including Chung Taek Lim, consul general of the Republic of Korea in San Francisco, and representatives of Korean American civic and media organizations. The clerk announced the vote tally as "31 yes, 0 no," and the presiding officer declared the resolution adopted.
The chamber's action is ceremonial: SCR 6 recognizes Korean American Day and memorializes the community's history and contributions; it does not create binding policy or appropriate funds. The resolution drew unanimous, bipartisan support during the floor session and concluded with a group photo and acknowledgments of guests from Sacramento, San Jose, San Francisco, and the Bay Area.
Votes at a glance: Senate Concurrent Resolution 6 (Choi) — Adopted, recorded vote 31-0; absent members were announced by the secretary and included Allen, Hurtado, Jones, Maguire, Perez, Reyes, Stern, and Valadares.
The Senate recessed and announced it will reconvene Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, at 9 a.m.
