Editor’s Notes: Readers may like to read also this report from APIAVote with the statement of Rep. Mike Honda and former Delaware Lt. Gov. S.B. Woo. Both Congressman Honda and Dr. Woo are some of the most-influential voices in the Asian-American community. The Honda statement and S.B. Woo column are found in this web site.

Dr. S.B. Woo’s column can be accessed at this link http://www.mabuhayradio.com/content/view/631/90/ while the statement of Rep. Mike Honda can be read at this hyperlink http://www.mabuhayradio.com/content/view/620/51/

"We are alarmed by the potential impact of irresponsible reporting and the harm it may have on legitimate political participation by members of the Asian-American and Pacific-Islander community," said Lisa Hasagawa, APIAVote Board Member. "It is imperative that the media approach these serious allegations with deliberation, focus and the highest levels of journalistic integrity. As the Asian American and Pacific Islander community embraces their right to participate in the civic process, it is important that the greater balance and responsibility be taken when addressing this important issue."

"In the past, Asian Americans have been criticized for not participating enough in the political process. It is ironic, we are being attacked for doing exactly what citizens are supposed to do: exercise their rights and fulfill their responsibilities," stated Noelani Kalipi, APIAVote Board Member.

Immigrants who have permanent resident status have the right to exercise their right to participate in the political process by legally donating to campaigns. Vida Benavides, chair of APIAVote, cautioned the media "for suggesting that legal permanent residents who donate to campaigns should be suspect because they have not yet earned their right to vote is misleading and is irresponsible reporting.

"Both political parties have long relied on ethnic networks for fundraising. There is nothing unusual about demographic groups with distinct concerns to voice their opinions through the electoral process just like all other citizens," said Daphne Kwok, APIAVote Board member.

"Many Chinese Americans from Chinatown, Flushing and Brooklyn are prominent and long time donors to many educational, non-profit and political causes," affirmed Jeanette Moy, APIAVote vice chair. "As a born and raised New Yorker, I am personally and professionally alarmed by the broad mischaracterization on the emergent political involvement of the AAPI community."

****For background information on the story, go to: www.apiavote.org