[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 24 (Thursday, March 7, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E296]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         A TRIBUTE TO HADASSAH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. WM. LACY CLAY

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 7, 2002

  Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay a 
special tribute to one of our nation's most outstanding organizations, 
a group recognized as both the largest women's and the largest Jewish 
membership organization in the United States, Hadassah. Hadassah is a 
name that has come to be synonymous with strength of purpose and 
humanitarianism. The women of Hadassah are a force for change with an 
unchanging commitment to serving human needs.
  Hadassah, the Women's Zionist Organization of America, recently 
celebrated its 90th anniversary. Throughout its long history, the women 
of Hadassah have exemplified the highest ideals of civic awareness and 
action. They have long combined an agenda of vital international and 
domestic issues. Proponents of a strong Israeli nation and a peaceful 
Middle East, they are also champions of fundamental social and domestic 
programs.
  In many ways, Hadassah exemplifies the heart and soul of our 
democratic society--active involvement in public policy making and 
civic life. The Hadassah members have successfully channeled their 
remarkable energies toward an agenda that spans from education and 
health care, to religious freedom and social justice, to energy and the 
environment. They are genuinely devoted to serving the human cause.
  In so many fundamental ways our nation changed forever last September 
11, and we have begun a new chapter in our history. As leaders in 
Congress, we strive to restore the strength of the American spirit and 
confidence that was eclipsed by the terrorist events. In this role I am 
inspired by the women of Hadassah. They have long exercised a very 
special and unique commitment to domestic and international issues. 
They are an organization of courageous women whose faith, perseverance 
and strength of purpose flourishes and thrives in the face of challenge 
and adversity. I salute Hadassah for its longstanding commitment to 
enhancing the quality of life for both the people of the United States 
and the people of Israel. Hadassah members are a source of inspiration 
and guidance for all Americans as we strive to meet the challenges of 
achieving peace and domestic security in the years ahead.

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