[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 66 (Thursday, April 20, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E341]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        COMMEMORATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF KOREAN CONNECTION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. HILLARY J. SCHOLTEN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 20, 2023

  Ms. SCHOLTEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Korean Connection, a 
nonprofit organization in Michigan's Third Congressional District 
working to build awareness and appreciation for Korean culture and 
community in West Michigan.
  This year, on the 10th anniversary of their founding, Korean 
Connection is commemorating the 70th anniversary of the signing of the 
Armistice Agreement between South and North Korea which ended the 
Korean War.
  During the Korean War, hundreds of thousands of South Korean 
civilians perished, along with troops from South Korea, the United 
States, and the United Nations who gave their lives to keep South Korea 
free from a communist takeover. I'm proud to stand with Korean 
Connection as they honor the sacrifices made for freedom and 
democracy--values we all hold dear.
  While this year holds particular significance for this historical 
moment and our values, it's also important for me to recognize just 
some of the ways our shared lives are enhanced when we celebrate Korean 
cultural heritage: Korean Connection organizes Korean language classes, 
cooking classes, and annual celebrations. My hometown of Grand Rapids 
recently recognized Gangnam-gu as a Sister City, and we're proud to 
share art and music across the world, as well as partner in business 
and medicine.
  Because of the work of Korean Connection, my district has enhanced 
respect for cross cultural connection, business ties, and the diversity 
that enriches us all. On this historic day, we remember those who 
sacrificed everything to defend freedom and democracy. We hold space 
for the experiences of those with Korean heritage in West Michigan, and 
we commit ourselves to the good work of building a welcoming community 
for all.

                          ____________________