[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 6 (Wednesday, January 20, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E50]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE REPUBLIC OF HAITI DURING ITS 206TH ANNIVERSARY OF 
                              INDEPENDENCE

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 20, 2010

  Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the first Black 
republic in the New World, as it celebrates its 206th anniversary as a 
nation, and for serving as an inspiration to all who support democracy.
  On January 1, 1804, General Jean-Jacques Dessalines, leader of the 
Haitian Revolution and the first ruler of an independent Haiti (Ayiti), 
declared Haiti's independence after years of war against the French 
colonizers. This historical rebellion, in which an army of former 
slaves defeated one of the world's greatest powers, was the only 
successful slave revolt in the New World and a clear example of the 
human race's universal thirst for freedom.
  Haiti's legacy of courage and triumph over oppression led indirectly 
to America's western expansion. The defeat of the French Napoleon Army 
by the Haitians, albeit indirectly, helped America expand its 
territories towards the West with the Louisiana Purchase. The loss of 
its most profitable colony forced France to sell others, including what 
was then called Louisiana, which represents around 23 percent of United 
States territory today.
  As we take this time to honor the second free nation in the history 
of the Western Hemisphere, second only to the United States, let us 
recommit our friendship and support to the people of Haiti as it moves 
toward economic and political stability. Although problems remain, 
Haiti is on target to recapture its legacy of resilience and valor. It 
is this same valor that was used when supporting the United States with 
additional troops during the American Revolution and we thank them for 
their support and sacrifice.
  This past year, Haiti has received unprecedented diplomatic attention 
which has resulted in political stability, economic growth, greater 
access to education, and success in the fight against the AIDS/HIV 
epidemic in the country. These reports bring a sense of pride to all 
those who know Haiti's history and its significance to all freedom-
loving people.
  We call to the attention of my colleagues the outstanding direction 
of President Rene Preval and Haiti's diplomatic representatives, 
Ambassador Raymond Joseph and Consul General Felix Augustin. I thank 
them for their leadership and service to the country of Haiti, even 
during the most challenging of times. They are champions of democracy, 
and I salute them for their dedication to fulfilling Haiti's legacy. I 
would also like to recognize former President Bill Clinton in his 
capacity as United Nations special envoy to Haiti, for rallying new 
international and corporate support.
  Madam Speaker, I invite you and our colleagues in joining me to 
celebrate Haiti's independence and committing ourselves to supporting 
them in the future.

                          ____________________