[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 10 (Thursday, January 16, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Page S255]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     NATIONAL RELIGIOUS FREEDOM DAY

  Mr. GRASSLEY. Madam President, today is a very important day that we 
recognize once a year--National Religious Freedom Day. It is a day when 
we celebrate America's longstanding commitment to religious freedom.
  The First Amendment to the Constitution protects that right for 
Americans. Unfortunately, this fundamental right we have great respect 
for in the United States is under attack internationally in many 
autocratic countries.
  Around the world, people are being persecuted for their faith by 
authoritarian dictatorships and terrorist groups. Countries like China, 
North Korea, and Russia restrict their citizens' rights to practice 
their own religion.
  China, for example, plans to enforce additional restrictions on 
religious groups starting February 1. That is already on top of a very 
bad record they have for religious freedom. That is in regard to China, 
but it would apply to all countries.
  I have legislation to require the United States to work to block 
World Bank projects in wealthy countries like China and Russia that 
abuse religious freedoms.
  I yield the floor.
  I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll.
  The legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. McCONNELL. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the 
order for the quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

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