[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 97 (Thursday, June 27, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1201]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          LEXINGTON AND CANADA: INDEPENDENCE WITH TOGETHERNESS

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                          HON. JAMES A. BARCIA

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 27, 1996

  Mr. BARCIA. Mr. Speaker, as we prepare to celebrate July 4th, our 
Independence Day, it is important to reflect upon the fact that our 
struggle for independence was not the only one. In fact, our 
achievement of independence often served as a magnet for those seeking 
the richness of freedom for which our forefathers selflessly fought.
  On Saturday, July 6, Lexington, MI, will be holding its Annual 
Independence Day Parade. This year, the village of Lexington has 
declared that July 6th will be recognized as ``Canada Day,'' out of 
respect for the Canadians that contributed to the development of 
Lexington. In the 1830's, many Canadians came to the United States, and 
to Lexington in particular, to escape a political struggle in their old 
homeland. They contributed to the growth of Lexington, which was 
originally known as ``Greenbush,'' but was renamed as Lexington in 1842 
in honor of the American Revolution.
  People of Canadian heritage have been a significant part of 
Lexington's population. In fact, as early as 1850, one-third of the 
village's population had actually been born in Canada. That proud 
heritage continues through the present day with many of Lexington's 
residents, including the parade's Grand Marshall Philomena Falls, 
having a chance this year to specifically celebrate their Canadian 
heritage.
  Next week Canada herself will be ably represented at the festivities 
by The Honorable Mike Bradley, major of Sarnia, Ontario, Mr. Joe Mills 
of the Royal Canadian Legion, and a color guard of the Royal Canadian 
Legion. I want to join all the people of Lexington in extending a very 
warm welcome to our Canadian friends.
  Mr. Speaker, independence is special. The freedom that we have from 
independence can never be equaled. But our independence provides us 
with special opportunities for togetherness--togetherness with those 
who joined in our struggles to gain or maintain our freedom, or who on 
their own fought for a freedom very similar to our own. I urge you and 
all of our colleagues to join me in wishing the people of Lexington the 
very best as they celebrate Independence Day.

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