[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 72 (Thursday, June 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1059]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  URGING TOLERANCE AND PEACEFUL CHANGE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 7, 2006

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to express concern about the 
sharp rise in hate crimes and racial intolerance, and to urge 
acceptance in our Nation.
  A recent report from the Southern Poverty Law Center stated that 
there were 803 hate groups in the USA last year. This is up from 762 in 
2004 and is a 33 percent increase since 2000. The Center's report 
stated the national debate that has focused on immigration has been 
``the single most important factor'' in spurring activity among hate 
groups and has given them ``an issue with real resonance.''
  Hundreds of thousands of people marched peacefully throughout the 
Nation to give a voice for immigrants in this country. Half a million 
in Los Angeles, 300,000 people in Chicago, 40,000 in Washington, DC, 
and 20,000 in Milwaukee and Phoenix marched to defend the hopes and 
dreams of immigrant families. Nearly 40,000 students across Southern 
California, including students at several schools in my district, 
marched for the rights of immigrants.
  Those who marched did so peacefully. I encourage everyone to remember 
the great history of change driven by nonviolent action, which is such 
a vibrant part of our Nation's fabric. Everyone is entitled to their 
own opinion, but I urge that such expression be done in a peaceful and 
non-threatening manner.

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