Grace Meng: “My amendment would ensure that the United States Export Finance Agency's efforts to diversify its workforce include…”

“My amendment would ensure that the United States Export Finance Agency's efforts to diversify its workforce include outreach to Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions, AANAPISIs. AANAPISIs, like other minority-serving institutions, can provide pathways for underserved communities to earn a degree and secure a job in the economy. The underlying bill includes outreach to historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, and Tribal colleges and universities. Whenever there are discussions of minority communities, it is essential that we remember to include Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. For those who are the first in their family to attend college, minority-serving institutions can open doors and fulfill their dreams. If we are to have a workforce that reflects our diversity, we must ensure that our government is reaching into all underserved communities. The AAPI community is the fastest-growing minority group in the U.S. By 2060, the AAPI population is projected to reach 40 million. By engaging with minority-serving institutions like these AANAPISIs, we can help people achieve their goals, find fulfilling careers, and ensure our Nation remains globally competitive. Again, with my amendment, I am requesting that the U.S. Export Finance Agency is inclusive and engages AANAPISIs in its workforce outreach efforts. Mr. Chair, I urge support for the amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time. Mr.…”