HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2026-4681
HR 4681
By Representatives Zahn, Thai, Parshley, Duerr, Peterson, Nance, Street, Hall, Taylor, Obras, Reed, Bronoske, Ryu, Stearns, Santos, Lekanoff, and Salahuddin
WHEREAS, Washington state's history has been shaped by the presence, labor, and cultural contributions of diverse communities, including Chinese immigrants who played a foundational role in the state's early development; and
WHEREAS, Racial tensions in the west helped lead to the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which represents a significant chapter in American history, informing how laws and public institutions have shaped the experiences of immigrant communities; and
WHEREAS, Remembrance of the Chinese Exclusion Act and the subsequent tragedies of the Tacoma Riot of 1885 and the Seattle Riot of 1886 provides an opportunity to reflect on the historical context of exclusion while honoring the perseverance, resilience, and lasting contributions of Chinese Americans; and
WHEREAS, Chinese Americans in Washington faced continued discrimination such as special taxes, prohibitions against marrying whites, and owning land, which led to the Chinese American community sharing resources, forming businesses, and using the judicial system to defend their civil rights; and
WHEREAS, Chinese Americans in Washington have enriched the state through their leadership and participation in commerce, education, public service, the arts, and community life, contributing to the cultural vitality of the state; and
WHEREAS, Reflection on the past plays a vital role in ensuring the history of discrimination against Chinese Americans is understood as part of Washington's broader civic and cultural story, rather than as a distant or isolated moment in time; and
WHEREAS, Learning about this history encourages public awareness, historical understanding, and reflection on the values of inclusion, belonging, and shared responsibility; and
WHEREAS, The House commends commemorative and educational programs which help ensure that the experiences and contributions of Chinese Americans are recognized, remembered, and passed on to future generations;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington state House of Representatives recognize the importance of reflecting on the history of Chinese American exclusion in Washington state as a moment for education, reflection, and remembrance, and affirm the value of honoring Chinese American history and cultural contributions as an integral part of Washington's shared civic and cultural heritage.