[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 60 (Tuesday, May 4, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E725]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     IN RECOGNITION OF YOM HA'SHOAH--THE HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY

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                         HON. E. CLAY SHAW, JR.

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 4, 2004

  Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Holocaust 
Remembrance Day. As in years past, today we honor those who were lost 
to the world forever in the horrors of the Holocaust.
  More than fifty years have elapsed since that dark period in human 
history. Since that time, Grandparents have taught their children and 
those children have taught their own, to remember the events that 
changed our world forever so as never to repeat the mistakes of our 
past. Year-round, we fight ignorance and disbelief through educating 
and informing others about the causes, realities, and legacies of the 
Holocaust. Today however, we set aside the day of Yom Ha'Shoah, to 
memorialize the tragedy and pay tribute to all who suffered.
  We remember those who endured, those who fought, and those who died 
during World War II. We recognize not only the loss of more than six 
million Jewish lives, but also the loss of human potential. Entire 
families were lost to the world forever. We think of the descendants of 
victims of the Holocaust who never had the opportunity to make their 
contributions to mankind. And we recall the heroes who risked and 
surrendered their lives in the greatest fight for freedom and democracy 
the modern world has ever known.
  Our greatest tribute to the millions who suffered at the hands of the 
Nazis will be to ensure that their suffering was not in vain. It is 
through our reflections on Holocaust Remembrance Day that we 
acknowledge their loss, and it is through our actions that we build a 
better world for us all.
  With contemporary examples of hatred and terrorism all around us, we 
think back and marvel at the strength and character of the Jewish 
people. Their steadfast determination to rebuild their lives following 
the Holocaust has given the world a remarkable model of resolve. 
Through their example, we can glimpse the extraordinary human spirit 
that rises above the fruitlessness of anger and resentment. With this 
special day and with our deeds we honor that spirit.
  Mr. Speaker, today we observe Holocaust Remembrance Day and call to 
action all peoples of the world to build a more tolerant and loving 
society. I am proud to recognize Yom Ha'Shoah and urge all Americans to 
do the same.

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