[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 36 (Tuesday, March 4, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E294]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   COMMEMORATING THE COURAGE OF THE HAITIAN SOLDIERS WHO FOUGHT FOR 
  AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE IN THE ``SIEGE OF SAVANNAH'' AND FOR HAITI'S 
                INDEPENDENCE AND RENUNCIATION OF SLAVERY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 4, 2008

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong 
support of this resolution commemorating the courage of the Haitian 
soldiers who fought for American independence in the ``Siege of 
Savannah.'' This resolution also honors those soldiers who fought for 
Haiti's independence and the renunciation of slavery. As a cosponsor of 
this legislation, I would like to express my appreciation for the 
efforts of my good friend from Florida, Congressman Kendrick B. Meek, 
for introducing this important legislation and for the House Leadership 
for bringing it to the floor for a vote.
  The War for American Independence was not easily won, and it took the 
contributions of an untold number of American patriots. It is important 
that we continue to remember those heroes who gave their lives for the 
freedoms we can enjoy today. In 1779, American rebels fought to take 
back the city of Savannah from the British. This resolution 
commemorates a group of 500 Haitian volunteers who fought valiantly 
alongside the patriot forces for more than 2 weeks as the siege 
continued. It is important for us to take this moment to commemorate 
and honor the memory and sacrifice of the 300 Haitians who gave their 
lives during that historic battle.
  It is fitting that a monument to these brave men now stands in 
Savannah, Georgia, where this momentous fight took place. It is also 
fitting that the monument depicts a young Henri Christophe, a man who 
helped gain Haitian independence and end slavery in that country.
  Mr. Christophe and his compatriots fought valiantly for the causes of 
liberty and justice on both American and Haitian soil, proving their 
deep commitment to these ideals. Their desire for liberty is not yet 
fulfilled, so we must continue to work with the people of Haiti to 
realize the dreams of their founders.
  We can hardly begin to measure the ways in which the people of Haiti 
have shaped our country. In South Florida, residents of Haitian descent 
have contributed so much to the fabric of our community. Their culture, 
heritage, and traditions have influenced almost every single corner of 
our society. South Florida--so rich in diversity--would not be what it 
is today without the Haitian people. From the beginning of our history, 
the Haitian people have left their mark on America and have helped to 
shape our great nation. In fact, the contributions of Haitians began 
before our country had even won its independence, and they continue to 
this very day.
  Madam Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to support this 
important resolution and honor the valor and ideals of the Haitian 
soldiers who fought for American independence and to end the practice 
of slavery.

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