[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 116 (Thursday, September 9, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S10709]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                           I WILL PLEDGE WEEK

 Mr. ALLARD. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize a program 
in Colorado aimed at stopping youth violence. In the wake of the 
shootings at Columbine in Littleton, students and parents throughout 
northern Colorado in Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor and my home town of 
Loveland organized the week of August 29 through September 4 as ``I 
will pledge week.'' The program was sponsored by the Fort Collins 
Coloradoan, Clear Channel--the parent company of radio stations KPAW, 
KCOL, KIIX, and KGLL, and school districts throughout northern 
Colorado.
  The ``pledge'' is a symbolic gesture meant to heighten everyone's 
awareness of the problem of youth violence. It stresses personal 
responsibility, tolerance and empowers each student to be part of the 
solution. I have proudly endorsed ``the pledge'' because I believe it 
will make a difference. I would like to now share with my colleagues 
``the pledge.''

                               The Pledge

       To end violence . . . ``I will pledge to be a part of the 
     solution.
       I will eliminate taunting from my behavior.
       I will encourage others to do the same.
       I will do my part to make my community a safe place by 
     being more sensitive to others.
       I will set the example of a caring individual.
       I will eliminate profanity toward others from my language.
       I will not let my words or actions hurt others . . .
       And if others won't become part of the solution, I will.''

  Last week, literally thousands of students across northern Colorado 
took this pledge. They committed themselves to be part of the solution 
to ending youth violence. It is an example I encourage others to 
follow.

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