[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 169 (Monday, October 30, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2064]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING FAROOQ KATHWARI

                                 ______


                         HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 30, 1995

  Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join with my constituents 
and with the members of the American Jewish Committee as they honor 
Farooq Kathwari, who will receive the Institute of Human Relations 
Award on November 2 in Manhattan.
  This prestigious award is presented annually by the American Jewish 
Committee to an individual who represents the bold and humanitarian 
beliefs and ideals that foster civil and human rights and promote 
democracy. The Human Relations Award embodies the practices of a 
pluralistic society and the belief that the goals of justice, freedom, 
and democracy for one group will be achieved only by guaranteeing them 
for all peoples.
  Mr. Speaker, Farooq Kathwari is a most fitting recipient of this high 
honor. His story illustrates what our great country stands for, and the 
bountiful opportunities the United States offers its citizens. Farooq 
Kathwari came to America 30 years ago as a political refugee from 
Kashmir, and he now leads one of the Nation's largest home-furnishing 
companies. He arrived in New York City at age 20 armed with a BA in 
English and political science, and with a determination to live and 
grow in a free society. Two years later he earned an MBA, went to work 
for Newcourt Securities, where he rapidly rose to the position of vice 
president, and simultaneously launched his own importing business. Soon 
thereafter, Ethan Allen purchased an interest in his company. In 1980, 
the firms merged, and Farooq Kathwari became vice president of Ethan 
Allen. By 1989, he had risen to the post of chairman, president, and 
CEO.
  While becoming a leader in the American and international business 
communities, Mr. Kathwari did not forget his origins. He 
enthusiastically undertook a variety of projects supportive of freedom 
and human rights. Of special note is his work as founder of the Council 
for Human Rights in Kashmir. Through this organization, Farooq Kathwari 
has dedicated himself to help foster a dialog for peace in this much-
troubled region, and to promote human rights around the world.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues in the House of Representatives 
to join me now in honoring Farooq Kathwari, a most compassionate and 
selfless citizen. May his good works serve as a model for countless 
others to follow.

                          ____________________