[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 120 (Friday, September 14, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1662]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      URGING TOLERANCE IN THE WAKE OF TUESDAY'S ACTS OF TERRORISM

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                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 14, 2001

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, in the wake of the terrorist acts perpetrated 
in New York City and Washington, DC, I am heartened by the American 
people's extraordinary display of kindness and cooperation. I have been 
moved by how our diverse Nation has come together in a united show of 
support--men and women, children and adults, Christians and Muslims, 
Jews and Buddhists, Hindus and Catholics, Latinos and Caucasians, Asian 
Americans and African Americans.
  However, I am concerned about reports of anti-Arab and anti-Muslim 
acts committed by some in our communities. American Muslims and Arab 
Americans share our commitment to the American ideals of freedom, 
justice, and democracy. They live, work, and have established 
businesses in our communities. Their children attend schools alongside 
our children. They support our community organizations. They are our 
neighbors and our friends.
  Acts of discrimination only serve to divide our Nation and weaken our 
strength.
  Our Nation is made stronger when we embrace our diversity. We know 
that any discrimination stands in direct opposition to the ideals our 
founders set forth in the declaration of Independence, the 
Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
  Today I joined my Congressional colleagues in cosponsoring a 
resolution condemning acts of hatred or discrimination against people 
of Middle Eastern and South Asian descent. The resolution encourages 
``people of every faith and heritage to stand together in this time of 
national crisis.''
  I urge all United States citizens to reject misguided acts of 
prejudice and to continue their unwavering support for our Nation and 
its ideals of freedom and peace.

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