Mike Honda

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay my respects to Fred Korematsu, who passed away last week at the age of 86. In his early years, Mr. Korematsu experienced America at its worst, but he did so as an American at his best. Many years later, in large part thanks to Mr. Korematsu and his courageous actions, our country atoned for its mistakes, and took great steps towards fulfilling the promises entailed in our Constitution. Fred Korematsu was born in Oakland, California on January 30, 1919. An American citizen by birth, Mr. Korematsu was nonetheless among the Americans of Japanese heritage ordered to report to World War II internment camps in May 1942. He defied the order, choosing instead to marry his girlfriend and live the life he believed that, like any other American, he was entitled to. That dream did not materialize; in May 1942 he was caught, arrested and jailed for failing to report as ordered. Mr. Korematsu maintained that his Constitutional rights had been violated by the forced internment order, given without evidence, specific charges, or a trial. With the help of the American Civil Liberties Union, Mr. Korematsu sued the government and appealed his case to the Supreme Court. He lost the landmark Korematsu v. the United States by a vote of 6 to 3. In the majority opinion, Justice Hugo Black wrote that the internment was based not on ``hostility to him or his race'' but on ``military necessity.'' In his dissent, Justice Frank Murphy spoke out against the internment in no uncertain terms: it ``goes over the very brink of constitutional power and falls into the ugly abyss of racism.'' For almost forty years, Fred Korematsu's conviction stood as a black mark of U.S. jurisprudence. In the early 1980's Peter Irons--a professor of Political Science at University of California, San Diego-- discovered documents in which government intelligence agencies categorically denied that Japanese Americans posed any security threat whatsoever. For the Supreme Court case, the official reports exculpating Japanese-Americans were suppressed. In the course of his investigation, Irons unearthed other reports describing government claims of Japanese American spying as ``intentional falsehoods.'' In light of this information, in November 1983 Judge Marilyn Patel of the San Francisco Federal District Court overturned Mr. Korematsu's conviction. Five years later, the specter of state-endorsed racism was finally lifted for all Japanese Americans when federal law provided apologies and payments to those wrongfully relocated during the war. There is no doubt that Fred's case figured prominently in the quest for justice for those American citizens wrongfully interned during the war. In 1998, President Clinton acknowledged Mr. Korematsu's role by awarding him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation's highest civilian award. Like Rosa Parks, who insists she was just tired when she took her bus seat in Montgomery, Fred Korematsu was not looking to change the world when he refused to be interned. But also just like Rosa Parks, his defiance reverberated throughout our country, and engendered change as profound as his action was simple. Mr. Korematsu spent his years after the war in California realizing his dream of a simple life; he worked as draftsman and raised a family. He is survived by his wife Kathryn, his son Ken, and his daughter Karen Korematsu-Haigh. His is a life worth remembering; his defiance a testament to the potential for greatness within every ordinary American; his story a reminder of the progress our country has made, and a beacon keeping us ever hopeful for a better future. In the words of President Clinton, ``In the long history of our country's constant search for justice, some names of ordinary citizens stand for millions of souls . . . Plessy, Brown, Parks . . . To that distinguished list, today we add the name of Fred Korematsu.'' Mr. Speaker, Fred Korematsu was an American. He saw a wrong and did what he thought was right. With simple courage, he stood up to an entire nation and demanded that it make good on its promises. He should be remembered and honored, and as common men and women not all that different from him, we should strive to walk in his footsteps, fighting for equality and justice wherever their defense is needed.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address S. 686 for the Relief of the Parents of Theresa Marie Schiavo. Numerous courts have reviewed the tragic case of Terri Schiavo, and all have agreed that the right to make decisions about her care rests solely with her legal guardian: her husband, Michael Schiavo. Even in cases where the patient has made it clear that she did not wish to persist in a catatonic state, families face excruciating decisions about how to proceed. Disagreement about the medical facts or the express wishes of the patient only add to the agony, and often lead to painful disputes within families. We are a nation of laws, and as such we have a proper and unbiased way of resolving these difficult situations. The Schiavo case involves a family dispute over who has final decisionmaking regarding Terri Schiavo's medical care, and as such falls exclusively under jurisdiction of the State courts. Federal courts do not have any jurisdiction in this case; the U.S. Congress does not have any jurisdiction in this case; only the courts of the State of Florida have jurisdiction here. But Republican leaders in Congress have decided they must get involved in this tragic story. Perhaps Bill Frist sees a chance to score political points in advance of his 2008 presidential bid; perhaps Tom DeLay sees a way to distract from his ongoing ethics problems; perhaps they are motivated by more noble standards. Regardless of their motivation, the GOP congressional leadership has pushed S. 686, legislation pushing an after-the-fact remedy by pre- empting State court jurisdiction. Foregoing even the pretense of federalism, and the notion of America as a nation of laws, S. 686 reflects the Republicans' belief that they may pick and choose the jurisdiction of their choice, depending on the day and the case. This bill places politics before the judgment of State judges, imposing Federal adjudication on a case that has been comprehensively reviewed and decided. S. 686 represents a gross abuse of legislative authority and a violation of the U.S. Constitution. Michael Schiavo has wrestled with the agonizing decision of what to do for his wife. He has followed Terri's instructions in accordance with the laws of his State and this country. Congress has no business in this matter, which involves a family decision based on mutual agreement between a husband and wife.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Chairman, the federal budget should be a statement of our country's values. It should reflect the priorities of the American people: good jobs, safe communities, quality education, and access to health care. The Republican budget, H. Con. Res. 95, is not aligned with these priorities; and I, therefore, rise in opposition to its passage. Like President Bush's budget proposal, the Republican budget calls for sweeping cuts in mandatory and non-defense discretionary spending that could harm the effectiveness of vital Federal programs. Perhaps in an effort to obfuscate the truth, House Republicans fail to provide the specificity the President does in his budget, so we are left to wonder which programs may get slashed or eliminated. But we do know this: the Republican budget resolution instructs various House committees to make almost $69 billion in cuts to mandatory spending programs. The Energy and Commerce Committee, for example, would be forced to find $20 billion in savings over five years. All indications are that Medicaid, which provides health coverage for more than 52 million low-income Americans, will take the brunt of the cuts. The proposed budget will also cut veterans' health care by $14 billion, education programs by $2.5 billion and clean water programs by $700 million. It will slash economic development programs by $1.5 billion, possibly leading to the elimination of the extraordinarily successful Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The CDBG provides Federal funding for locally-identified projects, like affordable housing, economic redevelopment, roads and public libraries. The Republican budget, in fact, neither adequately funds our national priorities, nor does it offer a strategy for achieving fiscal discipline. The resolution calls for a $376 billion deficit in FY 2006, but the deficit is worse than it appears. In calculating the deficit, House Republicans use surpluses in the Social Security trust funds to offset spending on other programs. If the Social Security surpluses are not counted, the projected deficit for FY 2006 would be $564.5 billion. Democrats, on the other hand, will be offering an alternative proposal today that reflects the priorities of the American people. The Democratic budget provides $4.5 billion more for education and training programs, $1.6 billion more for veterans programs, $2 billion more for community and regional development and $1.1 billion more for law enforcement and justice programs. It does all this while instituting a plan to balance the budget by 2012 and protecting Medicaid and Social Security. Mr. Chairman, it is clear that the Republicans have chosen to neglect the needs of the many in order to maintain and extend tax cuts for the elite few; it is clear where their priorities lie. I urge my colleagues to align their priorities with those of the American people, and vote against the Republican budget resolution and for the Democratic alternative.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my distress over anti-secession legislation recently passed by the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China (PRC). The new law reaffirms the PRC's sovereignty over Taiwan and threatens peaceful and non- peaceful means to defend its ``One China'' policy. In passing this law, the PRC imperils the status quo and durability of the delicate cross- strait truce that has been established. The United States has consistently maintained that differences between Taipei and Beijing should be resolved diplomatically and with the full involvement of the people of Taiwan and China. I subscribe to this position and the view that the status quo must be preserved until a peaceful resolution can be achieved. The anti-secession law disturbs the status quo and creates and unnecessarily tense situation that may lead to an escalation of hostilities. While the anti-secession law may have originated as a reaction to political rhetoric in Taiwan, the Taiwanese government supports the status quo, further obviating the need for the anti-cession law. The new law also seems at odds with recent positive developments between China and Taiwan that seem to signal closer relations. For example, direct flights between Taiwan and mainland China were initiated during the Chinese New Year holidays and two senior representatives from the People's Republic of China attended the memorial services for Koo Chen- fu who was instrumental in moving cross-strait dialogue forward 10 years ago. Mr. Speaker, in light of these positive events, it is unfortunate that the PRC has chosen to take a step backwards in the effort to improve cross-strait relations. The anti-secession law has made it necessary for us today to pass this resolution, which expresses the Congress' grave concern that China is establishing legal justification for the use of force against Taiwan. The resolution rightly urges U.S. officials, through appropriate diplomatic channels, to express our nation's grave concern to the PRC, and it reaffirms U.S. support for fostering cross-strait dialogue in an effort to resolve this international issue peacefully.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay my respects to an old friend and a wonderful man, Wing Kai Fat. He passed away on Friday, February 25th after a full, rich life, at the age of 79. We should all be so lucky as to have the many close friends and the large and loving family that he did. Wing Fat was born in Canton, China in 1925. When he was ten years old, along with his father he emigrated to America, settling in Sacramento. As a young adult, he served in the U.S. Air Force and graduated from Sacramento State University. For sixty-six years, Wing Fat worked in ``Frank Fat's,'' his legendary father's restaurant, until his retirement just a few years ago. Before his retirement, the very successful Fat family restaurant business grew to include ten restaurants. Wing Fat and ``Frank Fat's'' were mainstays in the Sacramento political and cultural communities. A well-known location for political deal-making, the restaurant was renowned as much for Wing Fat's personality as it was for the great food. Wing Fat was a truly warm man, whose affectionate laugh and inviting presence always made those around him feel welcome and comfortable. Although he had much to boast, he was remembered as ``one of the humblest men you could ever meet.'' His warmth and humility were matched only by his tact; his motto was ``You listen, but you never tell.'' When he passed away he took decades of private politic information with him, gleaned from years of being a trusted host to the Sacramento political community. It is no surprise that Wing Fat became such a successful restaurateur and that his business became a trusted venue for those involved in Sacramento politics. Mr. Fat generously shared his successes with his friends and his community. In addition to the counsel he offered countless mayors and council members, Mr. Fat founded a number of local cultural and civic organizations that will contribute to the Sacramento area for years to come. In November 2004, Mr. Fat culminated his truly generous philanthropic career with a $1 million dollar donation to the Sacramento Asian Sports Foundation to build a new sports center in Laguna. Mr. Speaker, Sacramento has lost a civic treasure and a wonderful man. Although it will never be the same without Wing Fat, he leaves behind a wonderful family, friends whose lives he touched, restaurants that continue to provide a warm place for people to gather, and charitable work and donations that will enrich Sacramento for years to come. I am honored to have an opportunity here to say not only ``goodbye'' to Mr. Fat, but also to say ``thank you.''

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. HONDA. I yield to the gentleman from Wisconsin.

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself 2 minutes. Mr. Chairman, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Ehlers) and I offer a simple but important amendment that will make explicit the eligibility of DWI Courts for basic grant funds under section 2003 of H.R. 3, TEA- LU. Section 2003 authorizes funds for Alcohol-Impaired Driving Countermeasures. In the year 2003, approximately 17,400 Americans were killed in alcohol-related accidents across this country. These deaths constitute 40 percent of all traffic-related facilities. Make no mistake; drunk driving is a public health crisis, and DWI Courts, which are on the front lines of the national efforts to curb drunk driving, offer a proven method of reducing recidivism rates among DWI offenders. Unlike traditional court systems, DWI Courts hold offenders to the highest level of accountability, while providing long-term intensive treatment and compliance monitoring to address the root cause of the DWI, alcohol abuse. DWI Courts are so successful because they draw on a diverse range of professionals, governmental agencies and community organizations. Each DWI Court judge heads a team of prosecutors, defense attorneys, probation officers, law enforcement representatives and alcohol treatment professionals. They work in concert with each other and governmental community organizations to ensure that DWI offenders get the punishment they deserve and the treatment and services they need to be responsible members of our society. Evidence suggests that these DWI Courts are working. Unfortunately, too few DWI Courts are taking advantage of Federal transportation dollars and section 2003 of H.R. 3 does not clearly authorize use of grant funds for these courts. Our amendment will clear up any confusion in this regard and encourage additional jurisdictions to establish their own DWI Courts. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to Santa Clara County Fire Captain Mark Francis McCormack, whose life was tragically cut short on Sunday, February 13, 2005. Mark was the first firefighter killed in the line of duty in the 58-year history of the Santa Clara County Fire Department. Members from more than 100 fire departments throughout the State of California gathered at his memorial service to show support for one of their own. Mark began his career as a firefighter in 1989. He was serious about his work, and was constantly working to improve his skills in order to serve his community better. Mark's hard work showed in 2001 when he received the Award of Valor for his contributions to both the Santa Clara County Fire Department and the community. He was a model firefighter, an enthusiastic team member, and a good friend to his colleagues. When Mark wasn't fighting fires, he worked as a volunteer counselor for the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation's Champ Camp, a summer camp in the Sierra Nevada for young burn victims. As a child, Mark was badly burned on an electric stove and had to undergo several surgeries to repair the injury. Mark always found the silver lining in any situation, and that's exactly what he did with his burn experience. He used it to help children realize that they are not alone--to help them realize their inner beauty. Mark was a favorite around camp, serving as a role model to many of the children he met there. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this time to say ``thank you'' to Mark McCormack for devoting his life to helping others, and for his service in keeping my home district safe. And my deepest condolences to his wife, Heather, who wrote to her husband, ``You are my life, my hero, and without you my heart will forever be broken.'' I wish that hearts could be mended with words, and that I could find those magical words to say to you. Heather, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, and that your husband was not only your hero, but Santa Clara County's, too.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a courageous American, a man who was willing to give everything to this country, but who got far too little in return. Magdaleno Sanchez Duenas was born in Maasin, Philippines on May 27, 1914 into a large loving family with seven brothers and sisters. Mr. Duenas worked several jobs throughout the years, moving in 1937 to Davao City. There, in November 1941 on the eve of World War II, Mr. Duenas was asked to join the impending fight for freedom as a soldier in the U.S. Armed Forces. Mr. Duenas proudly joined the 101st Infantry. To say Mr. Duenas fought bravely is an understatement. In 1943, he joined guerilla forces living in the mountains. He fought without shoes, living on a diet of ``camote'' (yams) and ``lugaw'' (rice porridge). On December 24, 1942, he was captured by the Japanese while gathering food for his fellow freedom fighters. He was immediately interrogated, yet he refused to relinquish any information that would reveal the hiding place of the guerilla forces. That night, Mr. Duenas managed to escape and return to his mountain hiding place. On April 4, 1943, Mr. Duenas helped engineer and carry out a rescue operation that freed ten American soldiers from captivity at the Davao Penal Colony. Mr. Duenas kept them fed and hidden and helped them rejoin the guerilla forces. For his wartime heroism, Mr. Duenas deserved fame. Tragically, however, this was not why he came into the public eye. Mr. Duenas realized a life-long dream and immigrated to the United States, arriving in Richmond, California in 1992. It was upon his arrival in America that Mr. Duenas and 16 other Filipino American World War II veterans were held in virtual captivity by an abusive landlord who beat them, kept them chained, and fed them only dog food, all the while stealing their monthly Social Security checks. In December 1993, a group of Filipino American advocates discovered the heinous abuses and rescued Mr. Duenas and the other Filipino American heroes that were trapped with him. During his final years, Mr. Duenas lived quietly in the Tenderloin District of San Francisco. Those who knew him remember him with deep affection as an endearing companion with a knit cap, and a folding two- wheel cart to get around. It is a equally tragic that Mr. Duenas and his other Filipino veterans still have never received full recognition from our government for their patriotism during World War II. In his final years, Mr. Duenas was featured in two documentaries and his story remains at the center of the battle for veteran Filipinos from our greatest generation. Sadly, Mr. Duenas did not live to see the story through to completion. He died this past weekend, on February 27th, at the age of ninety. Mr. Speaker, since 1948 every Christmas Mr. Duenas received a token from General Schoefner, one of the ten soldiers he saved those many years ago. This simple, poignant gesture of gratitude is a reminder as Americans, we all owe this man and his comrades more than just a debt of gratitude. We owe them the promise of the full equity. Mr. Speaker, we cannot allow more brave men like Mr. Duenas to die before we act on legislation introduced by my colleagues Bob Filner and Duke Cunningham, H.R. 302, the Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2005. This is the gift we owe to all Filipino veterans who fought along side U.S. soldiers during World War II.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall votes Nos. 28, 29, 30 and 31, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted: ``yea'' on rollcall vote No. 28, the Nadler/Meek Amendment, which would strike section 101 of the bill which imposes new burdens on persons seeking asylum: ``yea'' on rollcall No. 29, the Farr Amendment, which would strike section 102 of the bill regarding waivers to expedite construction of physical barriers and roads along the border; ``yea'' on rollcall No. 30, the motion to recommit; and ``no'' on rollcall No. 31, final passage of H.R. 418--REAL ID Act of 2005.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to strongly oppose H.R. 418, the REAL ID Act. This bill merely recycles the anti-immigrant and refugee provisions that did not make it into the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 passed and signed into law late last year. H.R. 418 does not improve our national security. H.R. 418 would repeal some of the bipartisan provisions that were set forth in the Intelligence Reform Act, including increasing the number of new border patrol agents, strengthening visa application requirements, and allowing security experts at Department of Homeland Security to establish strict new minimum standards for driver's licenses. I am particularly concerned with section 101, which would have the effect of preventing legitimate asylum seekers from obtaining relief in the United States. The REAL ID Act would require asylum applicants to prove that their persecutors' ``central motive'' for harming or wishing to harm them was race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Applicants may be denied based on any inconsistencies or inaccuracies in their stories. We must remember those who flee brutal human rights abuses, however, often escape from situations that do not allow them to gather any of the documentation necessary to present ``corroborating evidence.'' An escapee from the Darfur region cannot go back and ``track'' evidence of their persecution without facing threatening life situation. Moreover, the REAL ID Act would implement a national standard for driver's licenses, requiring all States to overhaul their procedures and to meet Federal standards within 3 years. Setting a national standard for driver's licenses infringes on States' rights and sends another unfunded mandate to the States. The border and fence security provision in this bill will neither deter nor detect the many non-citizens who continue to enter the U.S., while granting the Secretary of Department of Homeland Security power to waive any law upon determining that a waiver is ``necessary for the expeditious construction'' of the border barriers. Under this waiver, the DHS would be free to construct anywhere along our borders without legal limitation, liability, or oversight. Furthermore, this provision will allow DHS to destroy endangered habits and species, as well as archaeological sites containing 7,000- year-old Native American artifacts when constructing the additional fencing. H.R. 418 does not address the greater problems of our current broken immigration system. In order to fix our immigration problems, we need a comprehensive immigration reform.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4232 to designate the United States courthouse at 200 West 2nd Street, Dayton, Ohio, as the ``Tony Hall Federal Building and United States Courthouse.'' Ambassador Tony Hall served in Congress for 26 years before accepting an appointment to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture in Rome, Italy, where he oversees the World Food Program, the Food and Agriculture Organization and the International Fund for Agricultural Development. During his time as Member of Congress, in his pursuit to eliminate hunger worldwide, Ambassador Hall chaired the House Select Committee on Hunger and founded the Congressional Hunger Center. Ambassador Hall has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize three times for his humanitarian efforts and his work to prevent hunger worldwide. Today we honor the compassion, faith, and commitment of the man who once raised public awareness and attention on hunger issues by fasting for over three weeks. I came to know of Ambassador Hall's work through my role as Chair of the Ethiopian Caucus. He was the first Member of Congress to visit Ethiopia during the great famine of 1984. Since then his commitment to Ethiopia has remained steadfast and he has succeeded in directing international aid and awareness to the dire hunger situation that the region faces. Much of the Caucus' work is predicated on the foundation that he built and Ethiopians and the Ethiopian Caucus are indebted to him for his contributions to the region. Ambassador Hall possesses conviction and compassion befitting a public servant and we are fortunate that he represents the United States abroad.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a tragic anniversary, one which we can never afford to forget. Last week, my colleagues and I voted unanimously in support of a resolution commending countries and organizations for marking the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and urging a strengthening of the fight against racism, intolerance, bigotry, prejudice, discrimination, and anti-Semitism. January 27, 2005--marked the day 60 years ago that Soviet troops opened the gates of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in Poland and liberated the Jewish prisoners who had managed to survive the atrocities committed within those walls. I join with many others in remembering those who perished, in honoring their memory, and in promising survivors: ``never again.'' Countries around the world will commemorate this event as a reminder to us all of what can befall humanity when we turn away from injustice and fail to speak out when those in power single out innocents for persecution. Together, we have made progress in battling anti-Semitism around the world. As part of its effort to say ``never again'', the United Nations General Assembly last week, commemorated the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust, a signal that the UN will assert leadership in the ongoing struggle against anti-Semitism. This year's memorial ceremonies are particularly important because concentration camp survivors are aging at a rapid rate and may not be able to participate in such future events. Despite ongoing efforts, Jews throughout the world continue to suffer vandalism, verbal assaults, and even physical attacks. On this day of commemoration, we should all resolve to work towards a world where the Holocaust can never happen again.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor the life of K. Patrick Okura. Pat, as he was known to all who were fortunate enough to know him, led a long and accomplished career in the field of mental health and civil rights advocacy. My condolences go out to, Lily, his wife and life long partner who stood at Pat's side for more than 60 years. Pat's own life spanned more than ninety years and was certainly intertwined with the historic events of those years. Pat went to UCLA where he earned his a degree in psychology in the early 1930s. At UCLA he also played varsity baseball, which was unheard of for an Asian American at that time. He faced harsh protest from his teammates the entire two years he played at UCLA, but he became the first Asian American to play and letter in a major sport at a West Coast college or university. Pat and his wife Lily had been married for just two months in December, 1941 when our government gave them just four days to pack only what they could carry and sent them to live in an internment camp. While in an assembly center at the Santa Anita race track, Pat and Lily were able to avoid going to an internment camp when Father Flanagan of Boys' Town convinced federal officials that his orphanage in Nebraska needed someone with Pat's psychology background. Pat worked at Boys' Town for 18 years, providing counseling and administering psychological tests. After Boys' Town, Pat was appointed chief probation officer of the Douglas County Juvenile Court and helped establish a separate juvenile court system for the state of Nebraska. The Nebraska Psychiatric Institute later recruited Okura to head up the Community Psychiatric Services division, where he became the state planner for mental health and launched five successful mental health centers in the state. In 1970, Pat's work in Nebraska prompted then-National Institute of Mental Health, NIMH, Director Bertram Brown, to recruit Pat to become his executive assistant in Washington, DC. Pat saw this position as giving him an opportunity to help minorities and children and address delinquency. Pat worked at NIMH for 17 years, retiring in 1985. In 1988, when the U.S. government paid the Okuras and all other former internment camp prisoners $20,000 each, Pat and Lily used that money along with personal savings to start the Okura Mental Health Leadership Foundation, which helps Asian Pacific Americans overcome racial, language and other barriers. Pat's lifetime involvement with the Japanese American Citizens League, JACL, was filled with major accomplishments as well. After joining the JACL at the age of 25, Pat moved up through the leadership ranks, gradually assuming greater and greater responsibility in this civil rights organization. In 1937, at the age of 26, he served as the Executive Director of the Los Angeles JACL Office. Pat founded the Omaha JACL Chapter in 1947. By 1962 he became JACL National President and remained in office for three years. As JACL national president, Pat had the JACL march with Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1963, resisting opposition from some JACL members, who did not want to get involved. Even into his 90s, Pat was an active member of the Washington, DC chapter of the JACL. Mr. Speaker, I have only touched on the eventful and accomplished life of K. Patrick Okura, but clearly this was a man whose life represented a large part of our collective history.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 120, legislation to designate the United States Postal Service facility located at 30777 Rancho California Road in Temecula, CA, as the ``Dalip Singh Saund Post Office Building.'' This postal naming bill is a small act of appreciation for a statesman and activist who contributed so much to our nation. As chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, CAPAC, I feel privileged today to speak about the late Congressman Saund. Congressman Saund came to the United States in 1920 to study at the University of California, Berkeley, where in 4 years he earned a master's degree and doctorate in mathematics. Despite his impressive education, he was denied professional opportunities due to discrimination against South Asians in the United States. Despite discrimination, Congressman Saund built a successful life in the United States. He entered the agricultural sector, one of the few open to South Asians in the 1920s. From 1930 to 1953, Congressman Saund was first a lettuce farmer and then a distributor of chemical fertilizer in California's Imperial Valley. In 1928, he married Ms. Marian Kosa, despite stigma against interracial marriages at the time. The marriage also led to the loss of American citizenship for the former Ms. Kosa. The Quota Immigration Act of 1921 and Cable Act of 1922 revoked the citizenships for American women who married foreigners. Throughout his life, Congressman Saund was a champion for South Asian Americans' rights. As the national president of the Hindustan Association of America, he fought for citizenship rights for the 2,500 South Asians living in the United States. Gaining citizenship, he argued, would give South Asian farmers the right to own their own farms and share in the American dream. The Supreme Court, however, ruled in 1923, United States vs. Bhagat Singh Thind (261 US 204), that ``while persons from India were Caucasians, they were not `white persons', and therefore were, aliens ineligible to citizenship.'' On July 3, 1946, President Harry Truman signed the Luce-Cellar legislation that granted South Asians their right to citizenship. Three years later, Congressman Saund received his citizenship and became an active member of the Democratic Party. He ran for a judgeship in Westmoreland in 1950 and won, but he was barred from taking oath because he had not been a citizen for a full year before the election. Congressman Saund was disappointed, but undeterred and won again in 1952. In 1956, he campaigned for California's 29th Congressional District seat. Despite the use of racial epithets and anti-immigrant rhetoric, Congressman Saund defeated Republican Jacqueline Odlum by a margin of 3 percent. The voters of Imperial and Riverside counties knew in that election what the entire Congress would soon learn: Congressman Saund was a man of integrity and compassion with an unwavering commitment to bettering our Nation. When he took the oath of office in 1957, Congressman Saund became the first South Asian American elected to Congress. He was truly a champion for the farmers, working poor, and immigrants, and today he continues to serve as a role model for all South Asians. His impressive accomplishments should not be overshadowed by the tribulations he endured. Congressman Saund served this country admirably until 1962 when he lost his re-election bid after suffering from a stroke. Congressman Saund died at the age of 74 in 1973. Mr. Speaker, today we remember and honor Congressman Saund. He proved in his own life what he preached in his public career, ``There is no room in the United States of America for second-class citizenship.''

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I join my House colleagues in extending condolences to the victims of the earthquake and tsunamis that recently battered South and Southeast Asia as well as parts of East Africa. Generated by a magnitude 9.0 earthquake on December 26, massive tsunamis devastated whole villages in Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and India. The degree of this calamity has shocked and saddened all Americans, and I am pleased that through their representatives, the American people have an opportunity to formally express their grief for the more than 150,000 people who perished. Our sorrow for those lost, however, should not distract us from the immediate humanitarian crisis gripping the region. The World Health Organization (WHO) has suggested that between three to five million people lack basic survival requirements, including access to clean water, adequate shelter, food, sanitation, and health care. The WHO is also warning of an imminent health crisis, as contaminated water sources increase the risk of cholera, dysentery, malaria, and dengue fever. As the world community responds to this natural disaster, I hope and expect that the United States Government and the American people will be on the forefront of efforts to provide immediate and long-term aid. President Bush has so far committed $350 million for disaster relief, and I am hopeful that this amount will increase as we get a clearer picture of the devastation that has taken place. In the meantime, U.S. Government agencies are on the ground. The U.S. Air Force has transported 43,000 lbs of food, supplies, and equipment to the region, and helicopters from the USS Abraham Lincoln are shuttling supplies into northern Sumatra. The Defense Department is deploying Navy and Marine Corps supply ships and dispatching military medical teams to the most isolated and hard-hit areas. In addition, USAID, the federal agency responsible for the distribution of foreign aid, is now assessing the damage and individual country needs. These assessments will help better direct the emergency aid that is already flowing to the region. USAID will also identify the long-term goals to rebuild local economies, housing and infrastructure. The President has also enlisted former Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton to lead nationwide private fundraising efforts which are sure to generate large amounts of private donations. The American people are compassionate, and they will certainly give generously to help tsunami victims regain their health and their livelihoods. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those impacted by the tsunamis, including the estimated 5,000 Americans in the region who have not yet been heard from. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support this resolution to express profound sorrow upon the death of Congressman Matsui. I join my colleagues to honor and remember my good friend Congressman Bob Matsui, a true leader in the House of Representatives whose passing leaves us all with a sense of great loss. I would like to thank my colleagues, Congressman Stark and Congresswoman Lofgren, and the rest of the California Democratic Delegation for their swift leadership to pay tribute to our friend, Bob. I would like to say ``thank you'' to Doris, his wife and life-long partner, to his son Brian, his daughter-in-law Amy, and to his granddaughter for sharing him with us in Congress. In addition to the adoration of his wonderful family, Bob had the love and respect of both his constituents and his colleagues. He was a courageous and passionate leader who served California's Fifth Congressional District for 26 years. As a Member of Congress and as chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, CAPAC, I had the honor of working with Congressman Matsui. Bob was instrumental in making CAPAC a reality, and served as a CAPAC executive board member since its inception in 1994. Throughout his career, Congressman Matsui championed causes affecting civil liberties and immigrants' rights. As a dedicated member of the Asian Pacific Islander American, APIA, community, Bob fought for a formal apology from our government for its wrongful internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. Congressman Matsui and Secretary Norman Mineta led the way in passing the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. As an American of Japanese ancestry, Congressman Matsui helped obtain the land necessary for the National Japanese American Memorial, which recognizes Japanese American patriotism and honors members for never losing faith in the basic principles embodied in our Nation's Constitution. Along with Congressman Matsui and Secretary Mineta, I experienced internment as a young Japanese American during World War II. Bob was only 6-months old when he and his family were interned at the Tule Lake camp just months after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Bob understood the injustice of internment and sympathized with the other loyal Americans who suffered at the hands of the government in which they never lost faith. Bob Matsui listened to people, and set about helping them with compassion and dignity. Whether he was fighting for flood control on behalf of his constituents in Sacramento or defending those without a voice, Bob dedicated his entire career to public service. From the time he worked as a member of the Sacramento City Council, to serving as the vice mayor of Sacramento, and finally as a U.S. Representative starting in 1978, Bob Matsui served as a constant reminder of what integrity and dedication can accomplish in public office. Congressman Matsui truly believed in the U.S. Constitution and its promise of ``a more Perfect Union.'' He relied on those values embedded in the Constitution in fights to ensure adequate healthcare for children and provide a safety net for needy families and the elderly. Bob's leadership as the third ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee and the ranking member on the Social Security Subcommittee earned him the reputation as an expert on tax and trade policy, Social Security and welfare programs. In the 109th Congress, Bob's presence, heart, and soul will be missed during the great debate over Social Security. Mr. Speaker, Bob Matsui should ultimately be remembered for his civility, his dignity, and his service to others. He was a selfless role model whose footprint will forever be imprinted on our Nation's history.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, as a former teacher and principal, the issue of special education is very personal to me. I know firsthand that too many children in the United States are deprived of a quality education because the federal government has not met its commitment to special education. That is why I give my qualified support to the conference report on the Improving Education Results for Children With Disabilities Act of 2003 (H.R. 1350). Above all, this legislation reaffirms that all children have right to a high quality education tailored to their needs, and that the federal government has an obligation to ensure that school districts and educators have the appropriate resources to provide it. Indeed, this conference report is a step in the right direction. Every child learns at his own pace and our educational system must be able to accommodate the needs of each individual student. Accordingly, this legislation allows students, schools, parents, and teachers to focus more of their time and energy on the individualized education programs (IEPs), and less on paperwork and procedure. The effect will be a more stimulating and constructive environment for students. The IDEA reauthorization conference report increases parental involvement in the education of children with disabilities. Parents will have more opportunities to consult with teachers to deal with problems in an early and effective way, without the need to go though formal due process channels. It provides Parent Training Institutes, where parents can learn to use the resources available to them when working with schools to get the best education for their child. Additionally, in fifteen states IDEA will implement a pilot paperwork reduction program to help expedite the development and execution of IEPs. This bill contains provisions for early intervention for students with special needs and mandates ongoing updates on student progress. It allows students to stay in the same, specially tailored program throughout their entire educational career, even if they switch schools. This provision is especially critical for the over one million children who find themselves homeless every year. Homeless children are four times more likely to suffer from disabilities. Allowing children to carry over their IEPs when they switch schools will go a long way in helping these children get the best education possible. The IDEA reauthorization bill improves the handling of discipline and safety issues for students with learning disabilities. It requires schools to determine if a special-needs student's behavior is the result of the disability itself or of poor IEP implementation when determining proper disciplinary action. Further, children who are subject to discipline cannot be put into alternate placement for indefinite periods of time and cannot have their educational program suspended altogether. This is another important step forward in the education of special-needs students. Although I support this conference report, I am disappointed that it does not fully meet the commitment made by the federal government to our schools. The federal government has promised to cover 40 percent of the cost of IDEA. In reality, federal funding has consistently fallen short by as much as half. When we in Washington fail to fulfill our pledge to children with special needs, our federal mandates roll the burden over to state and local entities that are often forced to divert money from other crucially important programs to keep promises that we have not. This is unacceptable and cannot continue. Nevertheless, this conference report represents an important step forward in securing basic educational rights for children with special needs. I support the bill and I urge my colleagues to do so as well.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and achievements of Stephen Nadal, who passed away on November 5 at the young age of 35. Mr. Nadal made great contributions to the Asian Pacific Islander American (APIA) community throughout his lifetime, and he will be fondly remembered by his family, friends and members of the community whose lives he touched. Stephen is survived by his fiance and mother. Stephen spent several years working for nonprofit organizations, and he successfully coordinated several projects focused on social justice. His efforts focused on empowering the APIA community, and he worked tirelessly to educate the public about the importance of voting and community involvement. Stephen most recently served as the coordinator for the APIA Vote 2004 project in the great state of Washington. APIA Vote 2004 is a national coalition of non-partisan nonprofit organizations that encourages civic participation and promotes a better understanding of public policy and the electoral process among the APIA community. Stephen's contributions to this organization were instrumental in mobilizing APIA voters in Washington for the 2004 election. Through his untiring efforts, over 1600 APIAs in the state were contacted, with nearly 900 APIA individuals pledging to vote in the election. Additionally, Stephen coordinated an AIDS awareness campaign in the state of Washington and successfully organized several events that spread public awareness of AIDS while raising funds for nonprofit AIDS organizations. He also helped build Art Corps, a nonprofit organization that provides excellent arts education opportunities to young people. For his outstanding devotion and service to his community, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Stephen Nadal. Although he will be greatly missed, Stephen will forever be remembered for his constant commitment and motivation. He is truly an inspiration to us all.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of the Honorable William M. Marutani, who recently passed away at the age of 81. He will be fondly remembered for his contributions to civil rights and social justice issues, and for his tenure as a distinguished Judge. I am honored to stand before Congress to recognize his significant accomplishments. During World War II, Judge Marutani and his family were among the numerous U.S. civilians of Japanese descent who were wrongfully forced into internment camps in 1942. Following his incarceration, he and his two younger brothers served on the U.S. Military Intelligence Service. In the landmark case Loving vs. Virginia (1967), Judge Marutani became the first Japanese American to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court. Representing the Japanese American Citizens League as an amicus curiae petitioner, Judge Marutani urged the reversal of the anti- miscegenation laws in 17 states. As a result of Loving vs. Virginia, the 17 states were forced to reverse their laws, and interracial marriages became legal. Judge Marutani was a practicing attorney in Philadelphia until his appointment as a Judge on the Common Court of Pleas. He was appointed by Governor Milton Jerrold Shapp of Pennsylvania in 1975, and was elected for a full ten year term in 1977. He served as the first Pennsylvania Judge of Asian American descent. In 1981, Judge Marutani served as a Presidential appointee and sole Japanese American commissioner on the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians. The Commission's recommendation prompted Congress to pass the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which issued a formal apology as well as symbolic payments to surviving individuals incarcerated during the war. In this victory and throughout his career, Judge Marutani was instrumental in fighting for the civil rights of Japanese Americans. Earlier this year, the Asian American Bar Association of the Delaware Valley commissioned a portrait of Judge Marutani, which is displayed in Philadelphia's City Hall. This honor was conferred for his dedication to the Asian American legal community, ensuring that its voice was heard and well-represented. Judge Marutani's passion for human rights and the advancement of social equality in our nation will not be forgotten. As a proud advocate of civil rights, he serves as a role model to the local and national communities on whose behalf he selflessly served. I am honored to pay tribute to his distinguished life of dedication, kindness, generosity, and wisdom. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Judge Marutani's family and friends. Please join me in honoring Judge William Marutani, a truly exceptional individual who dedicated his life to the service of others.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Iris Chang, a courageous historian, author and champion of Asian and Asian American history, human rights and historical redress. During her brief yet remarkable professional career, Iris touched the lives of countless people, shedding light on past injustices and atrocities that had been forgotten or ignored. In her personal life, she was a loving wife and mother, a close friend and an inspiration to many. Iris is survived by her husband, Dr. Brett Douglas, her son, Christopher Douglas, her parents, Shau-Jin and Ying-Ying Chang, and her brother, Michael Chang. Iris Shun-Ru Chang was born on March 28, 1968 in Princeton, New Jersey. She studied journalism at the University of Illinois, and received her Master's in Science Writing from Johns Hopkins University. While at Johns Hopkins, Iris was commissioned to research the life of Tsien Hsue-Shen, a Chinese American scientist who was deported to China during the Communist scare of the 1960s and subsequently founded China's ballistics program. Her research led to her critically acclaimed debut, The Thread of the Silkworm, which addressed the paranoia and racism of the McCarthy era. As a historian and an activist, Iris fought passionately for historical justice and reconciliation. Her book, The Rape of Nanking, chronicled the horrific capture of Nanking during Japan's invasion of China in 1937, and was instrumental in educating the international community about Japanese military atrocities during World War II--human rights violations that had gone unwritten and unacknowledged for decades. Her efforts to seek redress for the crimes at Nanking brought her in conflict with the Japanese government and communities worldwide, but Iris was unwavering in her commitment to justice and truth. In addition to her books, which decried social and historical injustices against the Asian and Asian American communities in the United States and internationally, Iris was also a member of the Committee of 100, a national nonpartisan organization of Chinese- American leaders who work to address issues important to the Chinese- American community. For her work, she earned the Peace and International Cooperation Award from John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, and was named ``Woman of the Year'' by the Organization of Chinese-American Women. Iris will be remembered for her work and service to the community. Certainly, the millions of people whom she touched through her writings and her activism will not forget the moral vision she brought on past injustices to the international community and the public impact of her work in promoting peace between peoples of differing races and backgrounds. Her fierce pride of her Chinese-American heritage empowered others with the certainty that they were truly Americans despite their ancestry. Our community has lost a role model and close friend; the world has lost one of its finest and most passionate advocates of social and historical justice.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Madge Jennings Overhouse to recognize her lifelong achievements and indisputable legacy of selfless volunteerism and dedication to public service. Madge Jennings Overhouse was born on July 29, 1924 in The Dalles, Oregon, and soon moved to San Jose. She attended San Jose State University, graduating cum laude in history, where she met her husband, a member of both the football and track teams. Madge married Howard Overhouse in 1949, and they had one son, Richard, and three lovely grandchildren, Ashley Ann, Katie and Will Overhouse. Madge was a descendant of several generations of San Jose natives who served their city and passed that community service ethic on to her. The city's first and third fire chiefs, George and Richard Brown, were ancestors, and her father, Ralph James, was a San Jose fire captain. Her late husband, Howard Overhouse, also was a city firefighter. Madge herself worked for thirty years as a librarian at San Jose State University and San Jose City College. Her career as a librarian spanned almost 40 years and two institutions, beginning at San Jose State, then moved to San Jose Community College. Typical of Madge, she assumed a leadership role in her profession, serving on the Santa Clara County Library Commission from 1976 to 1982, as well as serving on the California Library Agency for Systems and Services from 1979 to 1984, representing Santa Clara County as an alternate for Supervisor Rod Diridon. Madge also served on the Steering Committee for the Master Plan of California Libraries. Madge's multitude of contributions to the community throughout her lifetime is legend, and the list of civic organizations that Madge has helped is extensive. We would like to take a moment to reflect on a few pivotal moments here. Madge was one of the first women to serve on the Executive Board of the Santa Clara County chapter of the Boy Scouts of America. The Santa Clara County Fair Association benefited from Madge's input as a Board member from 1987 to 1995. Madge also served on the boards of the Iota Delta Chapter of the Chi Omega sorority and the Campbell Historical Preservation Board. Madge was a long-time member of the San Jose Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Madge lent her talents to the Multi-Modal Transportation Task Force, which led to the completion of Highway 85, which is now a major transportation artery in the Bay Area. She was honored in 1994 as a County Woman of Achievement for her volunteerism. At the time, she was the political director for the county Democratic Information Center, which she co-founded in 1969. In 1986, she was named County Democrat of the Year. She was a Democratic nominee for the 22nd Assembly District in 1974, served as chairwoman of the Northern California women's division of the Democratic Party and was selected to vote as an elector in the 1992 Electoral College. Over the years, she has been honored by local police, firefighters and the AFL-CIO Labor Council. This past January 2003, she was presented the California Democratic Party's lifetime achievement award. Madge Overhouse, known for years as the godmother of the Democratic Party in Santa Clara County, hobnobbed with top local, state and national Democrats for more than 30 years. She was a Democratic National Committee member and attended all but one of the party's conventions, since Jimmy Carter's presidency. Madge began volunteering for political causes when politics was uncharted territory for women. As a result, she helped future generations of women see more possibilities available to them in politics. Also known as an Oracle of the Democratic Party, Madge lent her expertise to the careers of many public officials both male and female. Speaking from personal experience, Madge's gentleness in behavior, in advice and admonition will be my compass. It was on Wednesday, September 29, 2004 that Madge Overhouse died of apparent heart failure after battling breast cancer for two years. She was 80. The original diagnosis of cancer was she had a month to live. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of a friend, a role model and a constant inspiration. Madge Overhouse's heroic service to our community and guidance to individuals inspired many to go beyond their expectations and, as a result, contribute to the betterment of our beautiful and diverse community in Santa Clara County. Madge was a true hero, in every word and action.

Mr. HONDA

Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the anniversary of Taiwan's independence, a day more commonly referred to as Double 10 Day as it falls on October 10. Double 10 Day is a joyous and important day for the Taiwanese people, and I am proud to join the people of Taiwan and President Chen Shui-bian in commemorating the Chinese people's struggle for independence. Double 10 Day offers those of us in Congress an opportunity to recognize Taiwan's friendship and unwavering alliance with the United States. This strong alliance is predicated in part on shared values. In fact, Taiwan has nurtured a stable democracy and vibrant economy that encourages the entrepreneurial spirit. Through its trading relationships, Taiwan has become an economic engine in East Asia and reliable trading partner for the United States. Taiwan is our nation's 8th largest trading partner, underscoring the economic ties so critical to our two nations. In 2003 alone, two-way trade between the United States and Taiwan totaled $49 billion, and for the past 25 years the living standards have steadily risen for the people of Taiwan. Taiwan's strong relationship with the United States will continue to flourish and grow in the years ahead. In the meantime, I wish to welcome Taiwan ambassador Dr. David Lee to Washington. Dr. Lee has recently replaced former ambassador C.J. Chen, who was an excellent statesman and will be missed by his friends here in Washington, DC. I am confident that Dr. Lee will represent Taiwan well and I look forward to working with him and his very able staff. Again, Mr. Speaker, I extend my congratulations and best wishes to the people of Taiwan on the occasion of their National Day this October 10.