Asian Americans

Re “A List That’s Short on Asian Americans,” by Tom Plate, Commentary, March 11: His statements are straightforward and should be seriously considered by our current administration.

My community has been a victim of mixed messages from our own government. We were taught in our public schools that we were no different from any other American but in 1942 we were forced into American concentration camps.

We were told that by becoming educated we would succeed in life. We produced bundles of college graduates, with honors, only to find jobs unfilled. The formula for success did not fully apply to us.

Our country has the present opportunity to consider some highly qualified Americans of Asian background for some key Cabinet positions. Plate mentioned a few names but I can add to the list. Let us not send out another mixed message.

JOHN J. SAITO

President, Japanese American

Citizens League

East Los Angeles Chapter