[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 158 (Wednesday, October 28, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2648]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             MOVEMENT OF GUINEAN WOMEN IN THE UNITED STATES

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                         HON. YVETTE D. CLARKE

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 28, 2009

  Ms. CLARKE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the Movement 
of Guinean Women in the United States, the Commission for Guinean 
Forces Vives in the United States and Alliance Guinea for organizing 
today's demonstration in front of the State Department. These 
organizations were protesting the atrocities that continue to take 
place in Guinea West Africa.
  I would also like to express my concerns regarding the use of 
violence against civilian protestors that erupted on September 28 
resulting in the killing of at least 157 people and wounding more than 
1,200. I strongly believe that all citizens of Guinea should be 
afforded the right to have their voices heard without the threat of 
violence. I condemn any actions that resulted in gross and egregious 
human rights abuses.
  Even more appalling are the reports of physical and sexual violence 
against women. According to the Movement of Guinean Women in the United 
States, there has been an increase in violence against women since the 
military junta uprising took place. Women are being randomly raped and 
kidnapped, without recourse. Madam Speaker, these rapes are absolutely 
deplorable and those responsible must be brought to justice.
  The eruption of violence has taken a mental and physical toll on the 
people of Guinea and there is a dire need for emergency care and 
humanitarian assistance. The United States as well as the International 
community must come together to provide much needed medical assistance.
  I strongly support Secretary Clinton and the State Department's 
position on admonishing those who committed such injustices. I also 
concur with the Secretary's call to the current leadership of Guinea to 
control their military troops and allow an international investigation 
into the matter. The United States has insisted that the National 
Council for Democracy and Development respect the commitment it has 
made not to field candidates in Guinea's upcoming elections. This is 
integral to ensuring a peaceful transition back to a functional 
democracy.
  Guinea West Africa has carried the torch of freedom since its 
independence from the French in 1958. The country has been an example 
to the rest of the region throughout its history, as it was the first 
nation of French West Africa to gain its independence. That said, I am 
deeply concerned about the rising tensions within the country and its 
potential to ignite regional instability within the West African 
region.

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