Out of 535 members, the United States Congress consists of only 16 Asian-American or Pacific Islander Americans. As of 2016, there are 22.4 million Asian and Pacific Islander Americans living in the United States. At 22.4 million, Asian-Americans represent 14.8% of the United States population. However, in the United States Congress, there are only 16 congressmen or women out of 535 of Asian descent. That's just a hair below 3%. Comparing the number of Asian-Americans living in the U.S. to the amount of representation they receive within the government, the disproportionality is self-evident. Proper representation within their own government is imperative for the growth and inclusivity of any demographic. In an ever changing and increasingly more inclusive world, the lack of representation for Asian-Americans can no longer be tolerated. There are many simple and complicated forms of action one may take to support the increase in representation for Asian-Americans living within the United States. For example, if one is Asian, it is within their responsibility to vote for politicians who will represent them the most in the next upcoming congressional elections. Even if one isn't Asian, considering the movement for racial equality and inclusivity, it is still within their ability and interest to fight for equal representation. More representation doesn't even necessarily mean having more Asian-Americans in government positions. A politician doesn't have to be Asian to represent and fight for the needs of Asian-Americans. Of all these possible actions, it starts with your signature on this petition. By signing this petition, you are calling for state legislators and your local state congressmen or women to meet with more Asian-American political activists in order to further representation within government. Don't let Asian-Americans be reduced to a disproportionate statistic, sign the petition.