Statement by State Senator Daniel Squadron on Signing of Bill Eliminating “Oriental” From State Documents:

“I was proud to cosponsor this important legislation that will eliminate the use of the term “oriental” from state documents. I commend Senator Johnson and Assemblywoman Meng for bringing this bill to the legislature, and I applaud Governor Paterson for signing it into law today. State government should have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to outdated and offensive terms, and this law sets that precedent loud and clear. I will continue to fight as I always have to assure that the Chinese-American and greater Asian-American communities are fairly treated and well represented in our city and state.”