[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 113 (Friday, July 24, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1995-E1996]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN HONOR OF CANADA CELEBRATING ``CANADA DAY''

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR.

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 24, 2009

  Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, today I rise in honor of the people of 
Canada as they celebrate their ``Canada Day.'' The United States and 
Canada share a unique history of friendship and brotherhood that has 
intrinsically tied our two people together. Celebration of the founding 
of Canada is joyous time to celebrate our very special friendship with 
our neighbors to the north.
  Our two nations share a common cultural, historical, and economic 
past and future. For centuries Michigan has been the focal point of 
relations between our two nations. A mere eight miles separate downtown 
Detroit and the great nation of Canada. Detroit and Canada share a 
unique story that was started by the French explorers as they mapped 
our shared waterways and continues today.
  Canada and the United States share more than a common border. As both 
our nations have flourished we have developed strong cultural bonds 
that have greatly contributed to the

[[Page E1996]]

cultural fabric of both our nations. Significantly, Detroit and Canada 
share a devout love for hockey. Spectators and players from both our 
nations often cross the border to attend games and take part in 
friendly rivalries. Our shared cultural affinities have brought our two 
peoples together in a relationship unlike any other.
  Our two people also share fundamental ideals rooted in similar 
traditions and histories. We look to each other to grow intellectually 
as we face the complex issues of our day. Specifically, we look to 
Canada as a nation that has provided a national health care system to 
every Canadian citizen. As our country now addresses health care 
reform, we will do so through a uniquely American solution. Though our 
systems will be different at the end of the day, it is my desire that 
every American has access to health care. Our two nations hold a deep-
seated belief that health care ought not to be object of profit, but a 
guaranteed right of all human beings.
  In an era of heightened security and economic uncertainty the bond 
that ties the United States and Canada together has only grown 
stronger. For these reasons I am proud to lend my voice to the chorus 
of American voices congratulating Canada on its celebration of Canada 
Day.

                          ____________________