[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 88 (Monday, May 22, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E688]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF THE RECIPIENTS OF THE 2017 INTERFAITH BRIDGE BUILDER 
                                 AWARDS

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 22, 2017

  Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize this year's 
recipients of the Interfaith Bridge Builder Awards, Mr. Rizwan Jaka, 
Rabbi Jack Luxemburg, and Ms. Priscilla Martinez.
  Since 1978, the InterFaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington 
(IFC) has brought together people of eleven historic faiths to promote 
a dialogue and advocate for religious tolerance and cooperation across 
our nation and region. In order to bring these religious groups and our 
diverse community together, the IFC hosts a variety of events, 
including award ceremonies and seminars. The IFC also engages in 
grassroots activity while providing a broad range of educational tools.
  This year marks the 13th Annual InterFaith Bridge Builders Awards, in 
which the IFC recognizes the achievements and leadership of individuals 
in our region. Mr. Rizwan Jaka, Rabbi Jack Luxemburg, and Ms. Priscilla 
Martinez are not only exemplary leaders within the IFC, but they are 
also extremely respected in our communities.
  Additionally, I want to specifically recognize my constituents and 
friends, Mr. Rizwan Jaka and Ms. Priscilla Martinez, who for years have 
been tremendous leaders in Northern Virginia, both with very active 
roles within the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS). In these 
roles, they have not only strengthened our region's interfaith 
relations, but they have placed a great deal of emphasis on educating 
our youth. Mr. Jaka previously served as the President of ADAMS and is 
currently serving as a Member at Large of Islamic Society of North 
America (ISNA) and on the Board of Directors for the IFC.
  Mr. Speaker, organizations, like the IFC, that focus on fostering 
strong and welcoming communities are vital to the success of our 
region. I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking the IFC for their 
continuous efforts and to congratulate Mr. Rizwan Jaka, Rabbi Jack 
Luxemburg, and Ms. Priscilla Martinez on receiving this year's 
Interfaith Bridge Builder Awards. I wish them all the best in their 
future endeavors.

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