[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 135 (Friday, September 19, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1452]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             COMFORT WOMEN

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 2014

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, during World War II, the Japanese 
military forced thousands of women mostly from Korea and China to serve 
as sex slaves for the Japanese Imperial Army. Estimates vary as to how 
many women were involved, but most agree the number is around 200,000.
  These women were referred to as ``comfort women.'' But there was 
nothing comfortable about their role. The first so-called ``comfort 
station'' opened in Shanghai in 1932. These stations were used to 
satisfy the sexual desires of Japanese troops.
  When demand outstripped supply, the Japanese military responded by 
abducting more women in occupied countries. In other instances, women 
were lured with promises of work in factories or restaurants before 
being incarcerated in comfort stations abroad.
  An estimated 75 percent of these enforced sex slaves died. Many 
survivors were left infertile due to sexual trauma or STDs. They also 
suffered from depression, impaired anger control, and PTSD. These 
symptoms exist even today, over 60 years later.
  Since WWII, the Japanese government has been inconsistent in its 
message.
  Some officials insisted no women were forced into sexual servitude. 
Other officials claimed their role was ``necessary.'' Still others 
tried to discredit the few victims that are still alive. Japan would do 
well to accurately report the history regarding this tragedy.
  In 1993, the Japanese released the Kono Statement. In it, they 
finally confessed to forcing women to work in military-run brothels.
  Earlier this year, the Japanese announced that they would be 
reviewing the ``background'' of the Kono Statement.
  It is time for Japan to own up to its actions. Covering these 
atrocities behind a smoke screen will not change the truth. The stories 
of these women have been well documented. Victims have a right to be 
acknowledged. After so many have died, the few remaining survivors 
deserve an apology. They deserve justice. This would help the 
diplomatic relationship between Japan and Korea.
  And that's just the way it is.

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