Whereas,  there are more than 500,000 Taiwanese Americans in the United States, with a significant Taiwanese American population in Portland; and

Whereas,  Taiwanese Americans have made enormous contributions to the diversity and prosperity of American society, consistently contributing to the promotion of democracy and security of their motherland of Taiwan; and

Whereas,  real securities for Taiwan and the preservation of its precious democracy cannot be achieved without continuous help from their friends in America; and

Whereas,  because of American support, Taiwan’s voice is heard while it strives for participation in international organizations, such as the World health Organization and the United nations; and

Whereas,  during this special week, Taiwanese Americans are able to embrace American’s diversity and celebrate the spirit of community that binds us together as one nation; and

Whereas,  Portland/ Vancouver Area Taiwanese American Community promotes the culture understanding by hosting displays and demonstrations, a puppet show, folk songs and instrumental music and Aboriginal dance at Pioneer Square on May 8;

Now, therefore, I, Tom Potter, Mayor of the City of Portland, Oregon, the "City of Roses", do hereby proclaim May 11-17, 2008, as

Taiwanese American Heritage Week

in Portland and encourage all residents to observe this day.