[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 122 (Tuesday, September 15, 1998)]
[House]
[Pages H7698-H7699]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     NATIVE AMERICAN SUCCESS STORY

  (Mr. ROHRABACHER asked and was given permission to address the House

[[Page H7699]]

for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. ROHRABACHER. Mr. Speaker, we Americans are rightfully proud that 
our country is known as the land of opportunity. Unfortunately, Native 
Americans have not always enjoyed the upward mobility we are so proud 
of, but obstacles faced by Native Americans can and are being overcome.
  Prior to 1970, for example, the Choctaw Indians had no industrial 
development, suffered from high unemployment, and were dependent on 
assistance from Washington, D.C. for their survival. But since then, 
under the leadership of Chief Martin, a persistent and entrepreneurial 
attitude has enabled the Choctaws to break away from Federal 
dependency.
  The incredible progress enjoyed by the Choctaws is living proof that 
self-empowerment, private enterprise, and entrepreneurship are the keys 
to opening the doors of opportunity for all Americans, especially 
Native Americans. The governmental and business leadership of Chief 
Martin has made the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, since his 
election as chief, a shining example of what self-determination is all 
about.
  I am proud to join my colleagues in honoring the Choctaw tribe and 
Chief Martin's leadership.

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