[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 109 (Monday, July 20, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1849]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    H. RES. 529, CONDEMNING THE VIOLENT ATTACK ON THE UNITED STATES 
                            HOLOCAUST MUSEUM

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 20, 2009

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 529, which 
condemns the violent attack on the United States Holocaust Museum on 
June 10, 2009 and honors the bravery and dedication of Museum employees 
and security personnel. I also rise to extend my condolences to the 
family and friends of Stephen Johns who died as a result of this 
horrible attack.
  On June 10, 2009, 89-year-old James von Brunn walked into the United 
States Holocaust Memorial Museum and opened fire, killing security 
guard Stephen Johns. This act of violence led to the death of an 
innocent and admired security guard and wounded an institution meant to 
remind us where the spread of hatred can lead. Thankfully, the courage 
and quick action of the museum's security guards prevented further 
injury and death.
  Words of bigotry and racism cannot be ignored; too often they end in 
hateful actions. From the recent murder of abortion provider Dr. George 
Tiller to the shooting of two soldiers at a military recruitment center 
in Arkansas, hate too often materializes into violence with devastating 
effects for American families and communities. All of us must take it 
upon ourselves to end the ignorance and false beliefs that lead to 
discrimination, bigotry and worse. That is the mission of the Holocaust 
Museum and it is a mission and a message which now rings louder and 
clearer than ever.
  The assault against the Holocaust Memorial Museum, its employees and 
patrons is also a painful reminder of the public safety threat we face 
from gun violence. The United States must work harder to bring an end 
to gun violence.
  Madam Speaker, my thoughts are also with all those who have been 
victims of hate as well as those who dedicate themselves to increasing 
tolerance within our communities. I join my colleagues in supporting H. 
Res. 529.

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