[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 65 (Monday, May 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E863]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   ACHIEVEMENTS OF OPERATION RESPECT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 29, 2003

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I regret that I was not able to speak on 
behalf of H. Res. 161, Recognizing the Achievements of Operation 
Respect and the ``Don't Laugh at Me'' program, when it was debated and 
passed by the House of Representatives on Monday, April 28, 2003.
  I strongly support H. Res. 161 and the work of the Operation Respect 
program and its founder, Peter Yarrow. Operation Respect and its 
``Don't Laugh at Me'' program is engaged in a national effort to 
transform after-school programs and children's summer camps into more 
compassionate and respectful environments. The ``Don't Laugh at Me'' 
program addresses the issues of emotional and physical violence among 
children. It helps to prevent bullying and promotes compassion and 
tolerance among children.
  Operation Respect and its ``Don't Laugh at Me'' program has been 
presented at over 200 workshops for children in after-school programs 
and children's camps. Over 18,000 educators in 27 states have received 
training materials and curriculum to increase mutual respect and 
fellowship and create an environment for children that focuses on their 
schoolwork and promotes social and emotional growth.
  Peter Yarrow, the musician and social activist, who is a member of 
Peter, Paul, and Mary created the ``Don't Laugh at Me'' initiative. 
Peter, himself, has appeared before over 240 educational organizations 
in over 36 states on behalf of Operation Respect.
  Peter Yarrow is a talented, compassionate man with a lifelong message 
of humanity and caring. We have had the joy of working together on 
several occasions. Through his music, Peter has addressed numerous 
social and political causes, none more significant than Operation 
Respect: ``Don't Laugh at Me.'' This man, whose songs have had the 
power to stir social consciousness and effect change, is passionately 
dedicated to developing an environment of safety, respect, and 
tolerance in American schools.
  So it is with great pleasure that I join my fellow Members of 
Congress on both sides of the aisle to recognize the work of Peter 
Yarrow and this outstanding program, which has the enthusiastic support 
of educators and school children alike.

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