[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 19, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S6444]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                           WEST VIRGINIA DAY

 Mr ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I am enormously proud to 
reflect upon West Virginia's years of accomplishment and good works on 
this, its 138th anniversary as a State. Among West Virginia's greatest 
achievements are its outstanding citizens who have had an influence, 
not only on their home State, but also on the Nation as a whole. West 
Virginia is home of some of the country's greatest educators, authors, 
and scientists. Like all great Americans, these luminaries worked for 
the advancement of others. Like all great West Virginians, they pursued 
their goals while remembering their roots.
  I am reminded of Anna Jarvis, a teacher who longed to heal the rift 
between brothers during the Civil War. Miss Jarvis strove to provide a 
common bond between all Americans, northern and southern, that could 
serve as a stepping-stone toward a more lasting peace. To this end, she 
founded ``Mother's Friendship Day,'' now known as Mother's Day, which 
honors the sacrifices of all mothers. Indeed, Anna achieved her goal; 
and, she created a tradition that endures today.
  Another West Virginian, author Pearl S. Buck, sought much the same 
goal. Ms. Buck's revolutionary novel, ``The Good Earth'', highlighted 
the plight of poor women and children in early-20 century China. In 
addition, Pearl worked tirelessly to advance the civil rights movement, 
as well as the women's rights movement. Her efforts brought increased 
understanding and tolerance for the underprivileged. Pearl S. Buck was 
inspired by the tolerance and charity of her fellow West Virginians and 
instilled these ideals in a new generation of Americans.
  Like Anna and Pearl, Reverend Leon Sullivan recognized his ability to 
change the lives of others through example. A Baptist minister, 
educator, and civil rights activist, Leon also served on the board of 
directors of the General Motors Corporation. There, he promoted the 
idea of corporate responsibility abroad. His desire for racial 
egalitarianism worldwide forged the path for the Sullivan principles; 
these beliefs were instrumental in the abolition of apartheid in South 
Africa. Though he recently passed away, Reverend Sullivan leaves a 
lasting legacy of fairness and equality both at home and abroad.
  Finally, I think of Homer Hickam, an aerospace engineer who, in spite 
of his humble background, attended college and achieved great 
professional success. Today, Homer attributes his accomplishments to 
the early influence of an outstanding teacher. His story demonstrates 
that educators inspire students and open doors. Most importantly, it 
reminds us of why we should collectively invest in education.
  Today, I commend all of West Virginia's heroes, those that are well 
known and those who remain anonymous. I hope all Americans are inspired 
by the generosity, integrity, and devotion displayed by the people of 
this great State.

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