[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 93 (Thursday, July 8, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1316]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE CHICAGO HISTORICAL SOCIETY ON THE FOURTH OF JULY

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                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 7, 2004

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, today it is my privilege to recognize the 
contributions of the Chicago Historical Society toward preserving our 
glorious heritage and the legacy of great Chicagoans, on the occasion 
of its 45th Annual 4th of July Celebration. America has come a long way 
since the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, and 
I applaud the CHS for capturing the pivotal moments of this journey in 
its ``Documents of Freedom'' and ``Free to Vote'' exhibitions.
  By consistently demonstrating its commitment to historical accuracy 
and preservation, the Chicago Historical Society has earned its place 
atop the pillar of Chicago's treasures. Its commitment to this cause 
makes it the perfect backdrop for a celebration of our nation's history 
on Independence Day.
  We make the Fourth of July as the beginning of a revolution to secure 
those unalienable rights from tyranny, but the struggle began long 
before that date and would continue to be defended by Americans long 
afterward. Guided by courage, faith, respect for human dignity, and 
love of freedom, our forefathers fought valiantly to protect our ideals 
and liberties. In the two and a quarter centuries that have since 
passed, America has seen the highest peaks and preserved through some 
difficult times while the values that gave birth to our country have 
endured.
  These values that we hold so dear are preserved for eternity here at 
the Chicago Historical Society. And as the Historical Society has 
earned its place as an integral element of Chicago's museum community, 
the 4th of July celebration has become ingrained in Lincoln Park's 
culture, and holds a permanent place on the community calendar. Men and 
women who grew up with their parents here on the 4th of July, now bring 
their children along with them. And so, these values and traditions 
will continue to be passed on to future generations.
  Mr. Speaker, I applaud the leadership of Lonnie Bunch, Hill Hammock, 
and the other leaders of the Chicago Historical Society on another 
fantastic 4th of July celebration. I hope that the Historical Society 
will continue to enrich our lives and educate Chicagoans for many, many 
more years.

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