[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 56 (Wednesday, April 28, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E688]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              ISRAEL WEEK

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                        HON. MICHAEL H. MICHAUD

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 28, 2004

  Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the conclusion of 
Israel Week. From April 18th through April 27th, we commemorate the 
lasting friendship and mutual goals of freedom, democracy and peace 
that we share with Israel.
  This is a time for both celebration and reflection beginning with Yom 
Ha Shoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and ending with Yom Hazikharon, 
Israel's National Memorial Day for the Fallen Victim's of Terror. What 
we remember during Israel Week is not simply Jewish or Israeli history; 
it is a shared history of the struggle to overcome oppression, tyranny 
and hatred. I believe this message is significant to all peoples of the 
world. We remember the events of our shared history so that we may work 
together to end the fear, hatred and violence that plague our world.
  The United States and Israel have been allies since the United States 
first recognized Israel as an independent state in 1948. Since that 
time, our two countries have grown closer as a result of our shared 
democratic, religious and cultural values. As we move towards our 
seventh decade of friendship, I believe the United States must take an 
active role in helping to achieve permanent security and peace for 
Israel and its neighbors.
  Israel Week is not only a time to remember the past; it is a time to 
look toward the future. We must continue to actively pursue the dream 
we all share of peace, freedom and security.




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