[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 146 (Monday, October 3, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1741]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  CELEBRATING NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGY DAY

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                        HON. MICHAEL E. CAPUANO

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 3, 2011

  Mr. CAPUANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support the designation of 
October 22, 2011, as National Archaeology Day. Throughout the month of 
October, but particularly on the 22nd, archaeological societies across 
the country will celebrate the thousands of years of history that have 
been unlocked through artifacts and discoveries.
  The American Institute of Archaeology (AIA), headquartered at Boston 
University and comprised of over 235,000 members, will lead 108 of its 
local societies in a host of public educational activities to 
demonstrate the value of archaeological pursuits. AIA will also join 
with the American Anthropological Association, Society for American 
Archaeology, Society for Historical Archaeology, and American Schools 
of Oriental Research in collaborative efforts to reach out to over 100 
cities across the United States through online events.
  America is rich with history, and many exciting artifacts have been 
discovered over the years that have helped to illuminate that history. 
However, archaeology is about so much more than one country. Every 
archeological discovery opens a door into the past that can reveal 
important details about how our ancestors lived and what the world 
around them looked like so many years ago. Archeology also shows us we 
are united with the global community through shared past and common 
customs. It affords us a window into our development as a society and 
provides an opportunity for people of all ages to actively engage in 
learning about the history of their communities.
  Archaeological contributions are key to encouraging greater 
appreciation of our shared history and cultural heritage. Congress 
should do all we can to support these efforts. I am proud to join with 
communities across the country in recognizing October 22nd as National 
Archaeology Day.

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