Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Saemsori Opens Building on Capitol Hill; Holds First Meeting of Supporters and Advisors
Washington, DC, 23 August 2006-- Saemsori today opened a new building on Capitol Hill. Founded in February, the group has been officially endorsed by over 15 members of Congress for its mission to reunite American families separated by the Korean War.
Saemsori's building, within two blocks of the US Capitol Building and across the street from the Library of Congress, is the first permanent presence giving voice to elderly Korean Americans separated from relatives be in North Korea. Saemsori's key financial supporters and advisors came from Los Angeles, Chicago, Hawaii, New York, and Washington, DC to mark the event. The group included 1st and 2nd generation businessmen, religious leaders, Catholic nuns, a public librarian, students, and administration officials.
"We hope to give Korean-Americans a permanent voice on Capitol Hill," said Saemsori director, Alice Jean Suh. "The Korean War tore families apart over half a century ago; it is a painful chapter of both American and Korean history. Saemsori arrives today with a hopeful message and practical plans on how the US can help reunite families separated by the politics of the Cold War."
Attendees included Mr. Hong Se Hum (Glenview, IL), Mr. Bae Sung Keun (Honolulu, HI), Cha-hee Lee Stanfield (Chicago, IL), Mr. James H. Lim (Banning, CA), Mr. Yoon Hyuk Kim (La Canada, CA), Sister Agatha Jung and Sister Cecilia Lee (Potomac, MD), Mr. Harold Pyon (Washington, DC), Dr. Yoon Joo Lee (Washington, DC), Ms. Tina Bae (Newark, NJ), Mr. Haewon Bae (Queens, NY), Mr. Jake Kim (Laurel, MD), and Ms. Alice Suh (Washington, DC). During the meeting, the following board positions were elected: Chairman--Mr. Hong, Vice-chairman--Mr. Bae, Spokesperson--Ms. Stanfield, Secretary--Ms. Suh.
To get involved, please contact:
Alice Jean Suh, Director
Tel: 202-393-0645
Fax: 202-543-2390