[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 81 (Monday, May 15, 2023)]
[House]
[Pages H2317-H2318]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Pennsylvania (Mr. Joyce) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, as we begin National Police 
Week, we recognize the brave men and women of law enforcement who serve 
and protect our communities every day.
  It was President Ronald Reagan who said: ``Evil is powerless if the 
good are unafraid.''
  From carrying out high-risk warrants to patrolling our neighborhoods

[[Page H2318]]

to maintain order, we rely on police officers, our sheriffs, and our 
troopers to keep us safe.
  The bravery that they show in the face of evil--rushing toward an 
emergency is what stands between lawlessness and order on our streets, 
and ultimately safety in our homes.
  Sadly, we are so often reminded that there are those in this Congress 
who have looked to defund our law enforcement--actively working to 
strip them of the tools, the training, and the equipment that they need 
in order to allow us to remain safe.
  So far this year, 135 officers have been wounded by gunfire, 38 by 
ambush-style attacks, with 15 officers losing their lives in the line 
of duty, the ultimate sacrifice.

  While crime continues to rise in our cities, it is unconscionable 
that anyone would seek to take away the resources and support for those 
who have the courage to serve and protect us every day and every night.
  Matthew 5 says: ``Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be 
called the children of God.''
  The officers across Pennsylvania embody this scripture.
  This week, please join me in praying for the men and women who wear 
the badge. Join me in praying for their safety.
  Let's recommit ourselves to standing with our law enforcement 
officers. Let's pledge to never defund the police. In this Congress, 
let's promise to always back the men and women in blue.

                          ____________________