[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 101 (Thursday, July 1, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1264]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATING 17 AFRICAN NATIONS ON 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE

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                               speech of

                           HON. KEITH ELLISON

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 30, 2010

  Mr. ELLISON. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my best wishes to 
the people of Somalia living throughout the world on the 50th 
anniversary of Somali Independence.
  It is my pleasure and honor to represent a large and vibrant Somali-
American community in Minnesota. I want to offer my congratulations on 
this special day as they continue to work to advance the cause of 
peace.
  I am grateful for the contributions of Somali-Americans to 
Minnesota's rich tradition of diversity. The Somali-American community 
continues to enrich our state through its lively culture, optimism, and 
wisdom.
  Sadly, Somalis in their homeland have endured a tremendous amount of 
strife and suffering. On this anniversary we must continue to focus on 
diplomatic efforts to create a lasting peace for the people of Somalia. 
I continue to have faith that renewed diplomatic efforts will lead to 
good governance, respect for human rights, and democracy for the people 
of Somalia.

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