FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
April 10, 2004

Contact: Doug Bush 617-308-7906

Newton offers a new choice to serve the Commonwealth

Greer Tan Swiston, a candidate for the Massachusetts House of Representatives, invites the public to commemorate the contributions of people of Asian descent to America and to support an Asian American ready to serve her community. The celebration will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall on 15 Southgate Park in West Newton on Saturday, May 22, 2004, from 6 to 10 pm.

May is a time to recognize the contributions of Asian and Pacific people to the growth of the United States. It is also a time to recognize how all cultures can work together, each contributing to a diverse society. President Jimmy Carter officially recognized Asian American Heritage in 1978 by dedicating the second week of May, a week commemorating two important American anniversaries: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants and the completion of the transcontinental railroad. In 1992, President George H.W. Bush declared the entire month of May "Asian American Heritage Month."

Greer Tan Swiston, the daughter of Chinese immigrants, was born and raised in America. She embraces her heritage and will continue the proud tradition of community service when elected in November as the first Asian American ever to serve the Massachusetts Legislature.

"I have seen my family go through a transition since arriving here," Swiston says. "My parents came and worked hard, contributed to their community, and became proud Americans." Swiston adds, "I am running for state representative to make a contribution of my own to my community and to Newton."

With the leadership in the legislature faltering, education standards falling, and money being squandered, the career politicians on Beacon Hill are forgetting whom they are supposed to represent. Massachusetts is calling for more citizens to stand up and be a part of the solution. Greer Tan Swiston is ready to be one of those citizens.

"America has done much for my family and me," Swiston says. "It gave me an education when I was young and now does the same for my children. It has given me free speech, a safe place to live, and has allowed me to pursue opportunity."

"Greer is setting an example for our community," Joe Wong, president of the Asian Republicans of Massachusetts, said. "I am proud that she has taken on this challenge."

Swiston and her family have been residents of Newton for over 13 years. A graduate of MIT, and a successful professional, Swiston has been active in the community by coaching soccer, t-ball, and teaching at the local cultural community center. She even leads a Girl Scout troop of 19 girls who come from the Pierce, Burr and Franklin schools.

For more information on Greer Tan Swiston and her campaign for State Representative in 2004, please see her website at www.vote4greer.org