[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 28 (Wednesday, March 13, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E331-E332]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              TRIBUTE TO THE MOBILE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL

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                          HON. SONNY CALLAHAN

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 13, 2002

  Mr. CALLAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mobile 
International Festival, the first and oldest event of its kind in the 
Gulf Coast region. Founded in 1983, Mobile International Festival has 
helped to educate school children and share with the general public an 
event of cultural arts, foreign languages and world history. It has 
showcased Mobile's own rich heritage and promoted appreciation of 
diverse cultures worldwide.
  Every week before Thanksgiving, Mobile International Festival brings 
a cultural, fun-filled family experience of over 60 countries from 
Mobile's international community. Its stated mission is to ``encourage 
a spirit of friendship between students, community and the growing 
numbers of immigrants and international citizens; to strengthen 
understanding and acceptance among people of different cultures; to 
provide an opportunity to share in the uniqueness of each heritage 
through art, music, dance, food, flags, and cultural exhibits from over 
60 countries; and to provide educational and cultural activities which 
promote an awareness and appreciation of our city's rich cultural 
heritage.''
  The festival enhances the many cultures that are found in Mobile and 
nearby counties. Teachers have used the festival as a teaching tool and 
part of their curriculum. The festival supplements their studies in 
Geography, Foreign Languages, Art, Social Studies and Home Economics.
  The festival has contributed to the quality of life of Mobile's 
citizens. Due to the importance of this cultural event to the 
community, Mobile International Festival participates in many 
community-oriented activities representing the international community 
and assists the City of Mobile and Mobile County in selected events.
  In today's ever-shrinking world, where countries and cultures are 
increasingly required to interact and co-exist, Mobile International 
Festival serves as model for education and understanding between people 
of all different backgrounds.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud that my district plays host to this noble and 
important event. I believe the values it teaches are not only important 
for all Americans, but for all mankind, as we try to make our world a 
better place for future generations.

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