Designed to pay homage to the immigrant experience and individual achievement, the Ellis Island Medals of Honor were established by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO) in celebration of the centenary of the Statue of Liberty in 1986. The honors are bestowed annually upon distinguished American citizens from various ethnic backgrounds who exemplify outstanding qualities and contributions in both their personal and professional lives while continuing to preserve the richness of their particular heritage and reinforcing its bonds with other cultures and traditions.
As a symbol of America’s immigration history, Ellis Island used to be the primary immigration passageway in the United States--many new immigrants first set foot on American soil by way of this island. Every year, a gala award ceremony takes place on Ellis Island with the honorees receiving the high honor and commendation.
Warmly congratulating the 25th Annual Ellis Island Awards of Honor on May 7, 2011, the Sino-American Philatelic Center, duly under the supervision and authorization of the New York District, hereby issues this commemorative cover for felicitation and remembrance.