February 19, 2015

Las Vegas, NV – Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First District issued the following statement on the Lunar New Year which begins today. Titus is an original co-sponsor of a Congressional Resolution recognizing the cultural and historical significance of Lunar New Year (also known as Chinese New Year). The celebration of Chinese New Year dates back over 4,000 years, and it continues to be a worldwide event thanks to the Asian diaspora.

“From the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants in the 1850s to James Chen’s opening of the Chinatown Plaza in 1995 until today, Chinese Americans have played an integral role in our city’s cultural, social, and economic development. In fact, the New York Times listed Las Vegas as one of the 10 best Chinatowns in the United States.

“This Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the Year of the Sheep. According to Chinese tradition, individuals born in the Year of the Sheep are said to be tolerant, peace-loving, and kind. So in that spirit, we must recognize how much we all benefit from enacting immigration reform that honors our city’s history and our country's legacy as the ‘land of opportunity.’ I look forward to joining you for New Year’s celebrations at Chinatown Plaza and at the Linq to enjoy good food, music, dance, and shopping.

“Gong Hei Fat Choi!”