[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 70 (Tuesday, May 18, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E894]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR OF MS. DEBRA BROWN STEINBERG

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JERROLD NADLER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 18, 2004

  Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Debra 
Brown Steinberg on the occasion of her 50th birthday. Ms. Steinberg, a 
Lead Attorney for 9/11 families and victims, gave of herself for 2\1/2\ 
years to help those in need. She worked tirelessly to ensure that 9/11 
victims and their families received good legal advice and 
representation, and provided compassion and human understanding.
  Ms. Steinberg is a partner at the New York offices of Cadwalader, 
Wickersham and Taft located near the site of the World Trade Center. 
After the attacks, while many New Yorkers became extensions of their 
television sets and wrote checks to charities, Ms. Steinberg quickly 
understood how she could best help those whose lives were devastated by 
this horrific attack. It was clear to her that there would be a need 
for pro bono legal assistance, especially for the survivors and 
families of low-income workers whose problems would include 
immigration, housing, finance, language, education and job training.
  The challenges to these families, many of whom were neither citizens 
nor legal aliens, were overwhelming. Ms. Steinberg responded by 
organizing and training lawyers and law students, working with 
nonprofit organizations and unions to learn the challenges and suggest 
solutions, meeting with elected officials and government agencies to 
explore ways to overcome bureaucratic obstacles. Moreover, she shared 
her knowledge and motivated others to volunteer their time and 
expertise.
  Ms. Steinberg has earned the respect, admiration and affection of 
colleagues, friends and those she shepherded through these most 
difficult times. Her efforts have inspired those around her and enabled 
the partners and families of those killed on September 11 to begin to 
plan for their futures.
  All of us in New York, as well as all Americans, have a special place 
in our hearts for people whose selfless acts make this a better world. 
Debra Steinberg is one of those very special people and I am proud to 
know her.
  For her commitment to her community, her State, and this Country, it 
is my privilege to wish Ms. Steinberg a very happy 50th birthday.

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