[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 99 (Friday, June 16, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1279]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




[[Page E1279]]


        CELEBRATION OF THE FIFTH ANNUAL DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD

                                 ______


                         HON. THOMAS M. BARRETT

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 16, 1995

  Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
fifth annual Day of the African Child, which commemorates the massacre 
of south African students in Soweto on this date in 1976.
  These young students spoke out against apartheid, questioning the 
system that denied them equality. Who knew that their short lives would 
inspire their countrymen to alter the course of history in the years to 
come?
  This tragic event was a critical moment in Africa's transition from 
crisis to hope. The commemoration of this day should remind us that the 
children of Africa are the true victims of that continent's many 
tragedies, but also that they will help lead Africa to a brighter 
future.
  Although South Africa is successfully adjusting to its new democracy, 
other African nations continue to struggle. The horrible suffering in 
Rwanda has had a devastating impact on its children, with hundreds of 
thousands dead or homeless as a result of the senseless killing. We 
must work to prevent a repeat of this catastrophe.
  I applaud the many dedicated volunteers and organizations who have 
worked tirelessly for the children of Africa. I believe Africa--a 
continent of the world's oldest civilizations and yet home to some of 
the youngest political states--will work to ensure a brighter future 
for its children and share the fruits of its hard work with those who 
nurture that goal today.

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