[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 144 (Friday, November 3, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2081]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN HONOR OF THE 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE RESEARCH OF 
     MIDDLE EASTERN CULTURES AND THE MOROCCAN 45TH INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 3, 2000

  Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special 
tribute to the Association for the Research of Middle Eastern Cultures, 
A.R.M.E.C., on its fifth anniversary, and to recognize the 45th 
Moroccan Independence Day. A.R.M.E.C promotes cultural, social, 
educational, and religious activities in order to facilitate the 
participation of the Middle Eastern community in American life.
  A.R.M.E.C strives to promote interaction between individuals of 
various cultural and religious backgrounds in order to create an 
environment of mutual respect and understanding. For the past three 
years, they have honored and commended various Artists of the Year in 
order to further appreciate and bring recognition to the rich cultural 
heritage of the Middle East.
  A.R.M.E.C.'s mission is to help facilitate a harmonious multicultural 
society. They sponsor various cultural and sporting events including 
conferences, musical performances, and traditional celebrations. In 
1996, A.R.M.E.C. co-sponsored a family conference in Washington, D.C. 
with the theme: True Family Values for American Moslem Families. One 
hundred and fifty participants attended this conference to discuss how 
to improve the quality of families throughout the world.
  Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, A.R.M.E.C. is involved in many humanitarian 
and social activities. After the death of King Hassan II of Morocco, 
A.R.M.E.C. made available for signing a condolence book addressed to 
his son and successor, King Mohammed VI. Following this year's 
devastating earthquake in Turkey, A.R.M.E.C. sent an appeal to its 
members to express their solidarity and generosity toward the people of 
Turkey.
  The Association for the Research of Middle Eastern Cultures hopes to 
continue its efforts in familiarizing members with United States 
history, religious traditions, culture and laws, in order to facilitate 
integration into American society. Future projects include new 
immigrants support and assistance services, English and Arabic language 
classes, Middle East music and dance classes, and marriage and family 
counseling.
  Mr. Speaker, I salute the Association for the Research of Middle 
Eastern Cultures and ask my colleagues in Congress to join me in 
recognizing the great contributions of A.R.M.E.C. and the Moroccan 45th 
Independence Day.

                          ____________________