[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 64 (Thursday, May 15, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E936-E937]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




AUTHORIZING 1997 SPECIAL OLYMPICS TORCH RELAY TO BE RUN THROUGH CAPITOL 
                                GROUNDS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                       HON. JOSEPH P. KENNEDY II

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 13, 1997

  Mr. KENNEDY of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support 
of House Concurrent Resolution 67, the Special Olympics Torch Relay. I 
think it is a wonderful idea to utilize the Capitol grounds to honor 
these fine Americans.

[[Page E937]]

  The Special Olympics recognizes that even though some people may have 
a disability, it does not mean they cannot compete and succeed in 
sports. The participants in the Special Olympics are shining examples 
of what motivation, desire, commitment, and strength of will can mean. 
They never let the fact that they may not have two legs, or two arms 
stand in their way. They know that even if they are mentally challenged 
they can succeed at whatever they work hard at.
  I think it especially appropriate that we are also considering the 
Individual with Disabilities Education Act today. Few other Federal 
laws have ever had such a profound impact on a group of our citizens. 
It is a testament to our Nation that we have chosen to guarantee all 
our disabled citizens a free and appropriate education.
  Disabled people have always know that given the proper education they 
are able to contribute to society and lead fulfilling lives. For too 
long, nondisabled people thought differently. I am pleased that we have 
come so far--and hope that we will soon see the day that there are no 
impediments to full inclusion of the disabled in everyday life.
  The participants have trained hard and long for their competitions, 
and I hope all of my colleagues will join me in congratulating them.

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