[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 123 (Thursday, July 17, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H3373]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING LUNA AND OUR DIFFERENCES

  (Mr. LATIMER asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. LATIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Luna Higbie, the 
daughter of my friend, Brian, back in Westchester County, New York.
  Luna is a delightful 6-year-old girl, but she has already endured 
bullying simply for looking different. Luna wears an eye patch and 
glasses to treat her amblyopia. Mistreatment by a few peers has made 
Luna want to reject her treatment.
  Disney's Pixar has recently released the movie, ``Elio,'' about a boy 
who is wrestling with his insecurity and a longing to belong. 
Representation matters. Research shows that seeing someone in the media 
who mirrors your experiences boosts self-esteem, supports identity 
formation, and reduces stigma. Imagine how it might feel for Luna to 
see a character who wears an eye patch--someone like her. It makes it 
more likely to help keep her patch on, to feel proud and seen.
  As someone who grew up with strabismus and experienced teasing 
firsthand, I know how much it can hurt. We must teach our children that 
differences are not deficits, but paths to empathy and connection.
  Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in sending Luna a 
message of inclusion: You belong. You are valued, and you matter to 
America.

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