[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 10 (Tuesday, January 26, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E91]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES TO HAITI

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. AL GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 20, 2010

  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, I would like to extend my 
support to H. Res. 1021, which expresses condolences to and solidarity 
with the people of Haiti in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake 
of January 12, 2010.
  I would like to thank my colleague, Barbara Lee, chairwoman of the 
Congressional Black Caucus, for offering this legislation and express 
heartfelt condolences and sympathy for the people of Haiti in the wake 
of this horrific natural disaster.
  On January 12, 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the country of 
Haiti. An estimated 3 million people have been directly affected by the 
disaster in Haiti, more than 1.5 million people left homeless, and 
severe damage has been sustained by roads, ports, hospitals, and homes.
  The challenges in helping Haiti are immense, and the U.S. and partner 
countries have made important contributions to the recovery efforts. I 
commend the Obama administration for granting Temporary Protected 
Status for Haitian nationals in the United States, many of whom are 
unable to return home due to the destruction in Haiti.
  I applaud the individuals, businesses and philanthropic organizations 
across the United States and throughout the international community who 
have responded to the crisis in Haiti with an outpouring of generosity 
and support.
  It is clear that the people of Haiti are now facing a humanitarian 
crisis that is unimaginable and that will take years to recover from. I 
support a sustained commitment to people of Haiti and encourage 
innovative thinking in providing long-term assistance to the country.
  I am committed to helping the Haitian people recover from this 
tragedy and to rebuild their homes, communities, and lives in the days, 
weeks and years to come.
  Again, thank you to Rep. Barbara Lee for introducing this resolution 
and urge all my colleagues to support H. Res. 1021.

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