[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 29 (Tuesday, March 1, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E388]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       SAMIL MOVEMENT ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LORETTA SANCHEZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 1, 2011

  Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
recognize the 92nd anniversary of the March 1st Movement also known as 
the Samil Movement. Today commemorates the start of Korea's 
independence movement from Japanese colonization and on March 1, 1919, 
the people of Korea united to fight for their freedom. For 35 years, 
the people of Korea were denied their identity as they were violently 
discriminated against by the Japanese government and were forced to 
repress its culture on their own land.
  March 1 is a day of great proclamation as it was the first step to 
Korea gaining its independence and liberty. Although the Korean 
Peninsula remains divided, today we recognize the Koreans who fought 
courageously to defend their land, people and heritage.
  Today, the Republic of Korea is one of America's closest economic and 
military allies in Northeast Asia. South Korea is our 7th largest 
trading partner and our close relations are signified by our ongoing 
military cooperation in the region. South Korea remains a dynamic 
technological inspiration and a vital partner of the international 
community. As United States and South Korea continue our partnership 
and friendship, we must also continue to strive for the independence of 
the people of North Korea and look at ways to address the ongoing 
security threats from North Korea.
  As the Congresswoman of the 47th District of California, I represent 
one of the most vibrant Korean-American communities in the United 
States. And I would like to celebrate with them and the people of Korea 
on this honorable day of Korea's independence.

                          ____________________