House Authorizes Commissioning of Dalip Singh Saund Portrait
December 19, 2005
Today, Congressman Joe Wilson announced that the U.S. House of Representatives has authorized the commissioning of a portrait of Dalip Singh Saund, the first Asian American and first Indian American ever elected to Congress.
"From a small village in India to the halls of Congress, Dalip Singh Saund demonstrated that a person with perseverance and optimism can overcome tremendous obstacles and achieve remarkable successes. While working for American citizenship and serving as the first Indian American ever elected to Congress, Mr. Saund became a political pioneer of the Asian American community. His relentless dedication is an inspiration for all Americans," said Wilson.
"Today, I am thrilled to announce a tribute to Dalip Singh Saund and his extraordinary legacy. By permanently placing his portrait on Capitol Hill, we will commemorate his service and recognize America's unique culture, which enables all Americans regardless of race, religion, or national origin, to reach the very heights of success.
"I would particularly like to express my appreciation to Clerk of the House Karen Haas, House Curator Farar Elliott, and my Legislative Director Dino Teppara for their hard work during the commissioning process."
Congressman Wilson introduced legislation during the 108th and 109th Congresses (H.Res. 753 and H.Res. 31 respectively) which called on Congress to commission a portrait of Dalip Singh Saund. The portrait will be completed in approximately one year, followed by an unveiling ceremony on Capitol Hill.
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"From a small village in India to the halls of Congress, Dalip Singh Saund demonstrated that a person with perseverance and optimism can overcome tremendous obstacles and achieve remarkable successes. While working for American citizenship and serving as the first Indian American ever elected to Congress, Mr. Saund became a political pioneer of the Asian American community. His relentless dedication is an inspiration for all Americans," said Wilson.
"Today, I am thrilled to announce a tribute to Dalip Singh Saund and his extraordinary legacy. By permanently placing his portrait on Capitol Hill, we will commemorate his service and recognize America's unique culture, which enables all Americans regardless of race, religion, or national origin, to reach the very heights of success.
"I would particularly like to express my appreciation to Clerk of the House Karen Haas, House Curator Farar Elliott, and my Legislative Director Dino Teppara for their hard work during the commissioning process."
Congressman Wilson introduced legislation during the 108th and 109th Congresses (H.Res. 753 and H.Res. 31 respectively) which called on Congress to commission a portrait of Dalip Singh Saund. The portrait will be completed in approximately one year, followed by an unveiling ceremony on Capitol Hill.
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