[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 18224]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR OF THE JEWISH HIGH HOLY DAYS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. NANCY PELOSI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 13, 2004

  Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, in the Jewish community, this time of year 
is marked by reflection, thanksgiving, consecration, and celebration. 
It is a time to reflect on the events of the past year and be thankful 
for family and friends whose love and support guide and inspire us each 
day. And it is a time to rededicate ourselves to our commitment to 
tikkun olam, repairing our world, both at home and abroad.
  It is also a time to remember our commitment to our democratic ally 
and friend, the state of Israel. Israel stands as a symbol of Jewish 
prosperity and survival that dates back more than 5,000 years. This 
strong tradition is why we must continue to work and pray for peace.
  Over the past year we have again witnessed continued violence in the 
Middle East, but steps have also been taken to reinvigorate a peace 
process between Israelis and Palestinians. We must continue to support 
these efforts and remain optimistic that they will result in a lasting 
peace for all in the region. It is time for all parties to the Roadmap 
to use the opportunities presented by the Sharon plan to bring an end 
to the violence and achieve lasting peace in the Middle East.
  As we begin the year 5765, we are also celebrating 350 Years of 
Jewish Life in America and American Jewish History Month. Last year, 
the Congress recognized and marked this anniversary by passing a 
resolution noting the important contributions of the American Jewish 
community to our nation's civic, social, economic, and cultural life. 
Indeed, as my colleagues observed, the American Jewish community has 
``sought to actualize the broad principles of liberty and justice that 
are enshrined in the Constitution of the United States.''
  In Congress, my Democratic colleagues and I are fighting to bring 
prosperity, opportunity and security to every corner of America. We are 
committed to growing the economy; to expanding access to quality 
affordable health care; to keeping our promise to our children for safe 
schools with well-paid teachers; to honoring our historic commitment to 
seniors so they can retire with security and dignity; to sustaining a 
healthy environment; to upholding the separation of church and state; 
to protecting civil rights; and to fighting discrimination in all 
forms.
  I pray that we all experience peace, prosperity, opportunity, and 
security in the New Year. L'Shana Tova Tikatevu.

                          ____________________