[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 76 (Wednesday, April 22, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E379]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





 INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE HISTORIC ROLE OF VICTORY 
                                GARDENS

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                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 22, 2020

  Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Earth Day by 
introducing a resolution recognizing the historic role Victory Gardens 
have served in strengthening our country's food security, health 
education; and community morale through the worst of times, including 
World War I, II and their current importance as we battle the current 
Coronavirus pandemic. I want to thank my dear colleague and proud son 
of Nebraska, Ranking Member Jeff Fortenberry, for partnering with me on 
this valiant endeavor.
  America faced many challenges head-on during World War I and World 
War II, and even the youngest and oldest citizens across the country 
could participate. Millions came together to strengthen food security 
by planting Victory Gardens. Again today, we find ourselves facing a 
new enemy, an invisible enemy--COVID-19. Its devastation is broad and 
indiscriminate. Life as we have known it is forever changed. But as we 
seek comfort and higher purpose, the call to reignite the patriotism of 
Victory Gardens rings loud. Let us unite once more to strengthen 
community while we are apart and help supplement troubled food chains 
to defy and delay insecurity. The harvest of fresh fruits and 
vegetables in our own backyards would have an indelible impact for our 
families and neighbors.
  This challenge presents a ripe opportunity to educate our children on 
the value of mother-Earth, as we implement home schooling lessons with 
schools shuttered. Investments, whether time, effort, or financial, in 
Victory Gardening will help teach our young citizens the fundamentals 
of healthy and nutritious food, and the sense of accomplishment that 
comes with cultivation. We must not let this opportunity or duty go to 
waste.
  While we continue to combat the devastating effects of COVID-19, I 
urge citizens across our great nation to raise their spades and seeds, 
and join me in planting Victory Gardens. I urge my colleagues to 
support this important resolution.

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