[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 76 (Monday, May 18, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S5552]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   CELEBRATING TUNISIAN AMERICAN DAY

  Mrs. BOXER. Madam President, I ask my colleagues to join me in 
celebrating Tunisian American Day on May 27. This annual celebration is 
in recognition of the many contributions that Tunisian Americans have 
made to enrich our culture and society.
  The United States has maintained diplomatic relations with Tunisia 
for more than two centuries. On March 26, 1799, the first agreement of 
friendship and trade was concluded between the United States and 
Tunisia. The first American consulate was established in Tunis, the 
Tunisian capital, on January 20, 1800. On May 17, 1956, the United 
States was the first major power to recognize the sovereign state of 
Tunisia. Throughout the years, the United States and Tunisia have 
forged an amicable and enduring relationship that is based on a common 
commitment to the ideals of democracy and liberty.
  Currently, there are more than 13,500 Americans of Tunisian descent 
residing in the United States. The Tunisian American community has made 
invaluable contributions to improving our cultural diversity by sharing 
their proud heritage and rich cultural traditions.
  As Tunisian Americans gather to celebrate Tunisian American Day, I 
wish them a joyous and inspiring day and thank them for their 
contributions to cultural diversity.

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