[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 83 (Thursday, June 4, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1310]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




INTRODUCTION OF THE RESOLUTION COMMENDING EFFORTS TO TEACH THE HISTORY 
 OF BOTH ISRAELIS AND PALESTINIANS TO STUDENTS IN ISRAEL AND THE WEST 
  BANK IN ORDER TO FOSTER MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING, RESPECT, AND TOLERANCE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES P. MORAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 4, 2009

  Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Madam Speaker, at a time when there is intense 
division between Israelis and Palestinians, it is vital that the 
historical perspectives of both people be taught to both sides. While 
forces and events pull people in the Middle East away from each other, 
dedicated teachers in Israel and the West Bank are helping their 
students to confront their apprehensions and prejudices through better 
understanding of the ``other.''
  By teaching Palestinians about the Holocaust and Israeli-Jews about 
the Palestinian perspective of the 1948 war, the children in the region 
will hopefully grow to understand better, and fear less, those with 
whom they share the Holy Land. It is those kinds of initiatives that 
exemplify the small steps needed to be taken on the long road to peace. 
Let us recognize them and encourage others to do the same. Thank you.

                       Cosponsors of Legislation

       The Honorable Brian Baird, The Honorable Tammy Baldwin, The 
     Honorable Steve Cohen, The Honorable Keith Ellison, The 
     Honorable Sam Farr, The Honorable Bob Filner, The Honorable 
     Maurice Hinchey, The Honorable Michael Honda, The Honorable 
     Dennis Kucinich, The Honorable Barbara Lee, The Honorable Jim 
     McGovern, The Honorable John Olver, The Honorable Nick 
     Rahall, and The Honorable Fortney Pete Stark.

                          ____________________