[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 49 (Wednesday, March 21, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E608]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING JUSTIN PAWLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON LEWIS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 21, 2007

  Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Madam Speaker, the right to vote is the 
cornerstone of our American democracy. I rise today to honor Mr. Justin 
Pawley, an exemplary individual from my Congressional District, who has 
fought hard to protect and expand voter rights.
  Mr. Pawley, a self-described political junkie, is one of millions of 
Americans living with Down Syndrome. His civic awareness and interest 
in our political system motivated him to utilize his right to vote in 
2000. Sadly, Mr. Pawley was turned away due to a State statute that 
prevented adults with guardians to vote in the Commonwealth. Soon 
thereafter, he began a 7 year effort to correct this injustice.
  Mr. Pawley has demonstrated remarkable courage and determination 
through his work with State and local officials to get his right to 
vote. The Justin Pawley Act was introduced in the Kentucky Legislature 
last year to allow thousands of individuals with guardians the right to 
vote in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Mr. Pawley's quest came one step 
closer to realization last week when the bill passed both houses of the 
Kentucky State Legislature.
  Mr. Pawley's relentless pursuit of his right to vote is an inspiring 
example of how one person can make an important difference in our 
political process. It is my honor to recognize Justin Pawley today 
before the entire House of Representatives. He is an outstanding 
citizen worthy of our collective appreciation and respect.

                          ____________________