[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 140 (Thursday, October 9, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S10816]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   IN RECOGNITION OF THE 41ST ANNIVERSARY OF THE HUNGARIAN REVOLUTION

 Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, today I rise in honor of the 41st 
anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution. On October 19, the Hungarian-
American community will commemorate that fall day in 1956 when 
Hungarians attempted to throw off the shackles of oppression and gain 
freedom.
  In an era of Soviet domination, the brave citizens of Hungary rose 
against the Communist regime. Although the revolution was unsuccessful, 
it set a precedent that the Hungarian people wanted freedom. It was not 
until some 30 years later, with the reforms of the late 1980's, that 
Hungary greatly increased freedom. The most dramatic example occurred 
in May 1989 when the border between Austria and Hungary was opened. 
Thousands streamed across and spontaneous celebrations broke out on 
both sides of the border as Hungarians displayed their freedom to the 
world.
  A few years ago on a fall day in November, the entire world watched 
the most imposing symbol of the cold war tumble down. The Berlin Wall 
had been torn asunder. Had those individuals so many years ago not 
stood against the tanks that rumbled through the streets of Budapest, 
the momentous occasion in Berlin might not have occurred. Their bravery 
proved that freedom cannot be suppressed.
  I am proud of the Hungarian-American community's continual efforts to 
foster relationships of goodwill. These efforts will go far in 
enhancing and promoting the community's image and understanding 
throughout the United States and beyond. We can all be proud of these 
efforts.

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