[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 59 (Wednesday, May 4, 2011)]
[House]
[Page H3012]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
COMMEMORATING JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
(Mr. CICILLINE asked and was given permission to address the House
for 1 minute.)
Mr. CICILLINE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the
rich history of the Jewish American experience in the United States as
we mark Jewish American Heritage Month.
It is fitting that the words of the Jewish American poet, Emma
Lazarus, are immortalized on the Statue of Liberty, ``Give me your
tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,''
because here in the United States we recognize the powerful impact of
the Jewish American experience--people who escaped persecution, arrived
here as immigrants and prospered.
Jewish Americans formed strong communities, became involved in their
neighborhoods, and have made lasting contributions to our country.
Jewish Americans represent some of this country's, and indeed the
world's, foremost innovators in health and science, business and
industry, politics and government, arts and culture. This spirit is
also found in many Jewish Americans who work tirelessly to seek a
better life for future generations.
In celebrating the many milestones of Jewish Americans this month, we
honor the lives, work, and rich history of Jewish Americans throughout
our Nation. And that's why this month we take time to remember the
unique Jewish American identity, steeped in history and faith, and
their tremendously important contributions to our Nation.
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