[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 16 (Wednesday, February 23, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: February 23, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                     A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR UNITY

                                 ______


                          HON. JERROLD NADLER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 23, 1994

  Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform my colleagues of the 
outstanding work of an organization in my congressional district which 
is working to heal the rifts which have for too long divided our city 
and our Nation along racial and ethnic lines. The Foundation for Ethnic 
Understanding, an organization of concerned citizens, is working to 
promote understanding and peace between the diverse communities that 
make up the greatest and most vibrant of cities in the world.
  They have chosen as their emblem the GOLDEN OpportUNITY FOR UNITY 
universal harmony insignia created by Artist-in-Residence Regi Taylor.
  The foundation president, Rabbi Marc Schneier, has called the GOLDEN 
opportUNITY for UNITY an artistic expression which 
exemplifies a very profound social ideal. Rabbi Schneier has observed 
that:

       Regi has, in this work, captured the spirit of mutual 
     ethnic understanding, respect and cooperation which is at the 
     foundation's philosophical core. I believe we can reach 
     multitudes with the insignia's message, encouraging positive 
     racial dialog on a large scale.

  Regi Taylor's vision is equally forward looking, and his work 
demonstrates the power of artistic expression to affect people deeply 
and truly change the world.
  Mr. Speaker, sometimes it seems that mistrust, a failure to 
communicate, and fear combine to fuel the fires of hatred in our Nation 
and around the world. We need potent and profound reminders that our 
strength lies in our diversity and our ability to build on the combined 
strengths of many traditions. We are Americans, not so much because of 
where we are from, but because of what we have done here together to 
build this Nation. Each of us has a part. As we face the challenges 
that lie ahead, we are going to need the talents and abilities of 
everyone.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud that in the city of New York, neighbors are 
working together for a better day. They are using the power of artistic 
expression and the moral leadership of example to bring about the kind 
of change we will need if this Nation is to survive. I am pleased to 
commend their efforts to my colleagues.

                          ____________________