[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 83 (Wednesday, May 17, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E458]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               RECOGNIZING TAMIL GENOCIDE REMEMBRANCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. WILEY NICKEL

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 17, 2023

  Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Tamil 
Genocide Remembrance Day, an important occasion that holds great 
significance for the Tamil people around the world and for all those 
who advocate for peace, justice, and human rights around the world.
  As the first U.S. legislator to officially acknowledge the Tamil 
Genocide in Sri Lanka and as a steadfast supporter of the Tamil 
community in North Carolina and Sri Lanka, I'm proud to offer this 
statement in commemoration of this solemn day.
  The Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day is observed on May 18th of each 
year to mark the events of mass atrocities that unfolded during the 
final stages of the Sri Lankan Ethnic War in 2009. It serves as a day 
of remembrance for the tens of thousands of innocent lives lost. It's a 
reminder that we must express solidarity with the survivors who 
continue to grapple with the painful memories and consequences of this 
devastating conflict.
  The Sri Lankan Ethnic War, which spanned nearly three decades, 
resulted in immense suffering and loss of life. We must recognize and 
remember these tragic events to foster healing and justice and to 
ensure non-recurrence. The final months of the conflict were 
particularly brutal. Mullivaikkal, a small coastal strip in the 
northeastern part of the country, became the site of a large-scale 
offensive that led to the ethnic slaughter of tens of thousands of 
Tamil civilians.
  We must acknowledge the pain and suffering endured by the Tamil 
People on the island and ensure that the voices of survivors are heard 
to foster healing, justice, and reconciliation.
  I commend the Tamil Americans working tirelessly to promote awareness 
of the Tamil Genocide and advocate for the rights of the Tamil 
community. Their dedication and commitment to justice and peace are 
commendable.
  As we observe Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day, let's remember the 
lives lost, the families torn apart, and the enduring resilience of the 
Tamil people. May this day remind us of our responsibility to stand 
against injustice and work towards a world where everyone can live in 
peace, equality, freedom, and dignity.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Tamil Genocide 
Remembrance Day.

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