[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 140 (Wednesday, October 2, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1904]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATIONS TO RACHEL ENOMOTO, A WINNER IN THE HAWAII CARPENTERS 
                     UNION VOTE 1996 ESSAY CONTEST

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                           HON. PATSY T. MINK

                               of hawaii

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 2, 1996

  Mrs. MINK of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Rachel 
Enomoto of Mililani, HI for her winning essay in the Hawaii Carpenters 
Union ``Vote `96--Vorks for US'' essay contest. Rachel, the daughter of 
Hawaii Carpenters Unit 6 member Stephen Enomoto, took first place in 
the 11 years and under age category.
  As one of the judges, I can truly say there were many fine entries in 
this contest dedicated to promoting the importance of voting. Hearing 
from the youth of our Nation puts a new perspective on this right we 
sometimes take for granted. Congratulations Rachel on your insightful, 
award-winning essay:

       The reason why voting is so important to our union family 
     is because one person and one vote may not be by itself 
     strong, but a vote that is united can make a difference.
       Unions have long fought for their members' rights to a good 
     wage, safe working conditions, and fair representation with 
     management. If the union family doesn't vote as one then the 
     rights gained can easily be lost.
       If my dad were to get hurt at work, he has the right to get 
     the workmen's compensation, or if he were to go on strike he 
     knows that the company does not have the right to replace him 
     while on strike. These are just a few rights that might be 
     taken away under a Republican Congress.
       It is up to the union members to support and vote for 
     candidates that would oppose such measures if elected, 
     candidates who would support union--workers--rights in 
     Congress.
       In conclusion, the union family must take an active part in 
     each election because if the union family does vote for who 
     they want, it will make a difference. But if they don't vote, 
     they're allowing others to decide their future.

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