[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 58 (Thursday, April 22, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E620]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING ISRAELI INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                       HON. MAURICE D. HINCHEY--

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 21, 2010

  Mr. HINCHEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 
State of Israel on the occasion of its 62nd anniversary. For 62 years, 
the United States and the modern State of Israel have shared a deep 
friendship and strong bonds of cooperation. Since the establishment of 
our ally in May 1948, the United States and Israel have been united by 
their strong ties and mutual democratic values.
  This week, we pay tribute to the tremendous accomplishments of the 
State of Israel, which has developed a prosperous, educated, and 
vibrant nation since its establishment 62 years ago. During that time, 
the United States has stood in vigorous support of Israel's right to to 
exist and will continue to do so in the future. As a democracy, 
Israel's people enjoy freedom of speech and religion, an open political 
system, an independent judiciary and many other practices. Israel's 
colleges and universities are highly respected, which strengthens the 
Israeli economy and allows the country to be a leader in research and 
innovation.
  I am also pleased to celebrate the ties between the American and 
Israeli people and the rich history of the American Jewish community. 
For hundreds of years, the United States has benefited from Jewish 
contributions to American culture. As a nation of immigrants, the 
United States is better and stronger because Jewish people from all 
over the world have chosen to become American citizens. When the first 
Jewish settlers came to this land, they sought a place of promise where 
they could practice their faith in freedom and live in liberty. 
American Jews have strengthened our country and helped shape our way of 
life. By recognizing those contributions to the the fabric of American 
life, we promote awareness and understanding.
  Israel is an integral and essential partner and I look forward to 
opportunities to continue and enhance the strong bonds between our 
nations. As a defender of the inherent rights of all people and 
nations, I am proud to commemorate the 62nd anniversary of the 
establishment of the State of Israel.

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