Hank Johnson

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my apologies for my absence on July 20, 2010, and for missing recorded votes held on this day. I regret that matters in my district required my personal attention and prevented me from being present to cast my vote. Although I was unable to vote, I wish to let my constituents and my colleagues know how I would have voted had I been present. On H. Res. 1491--Congratulating the University of South Carolina Gamecocks on winning the 2010 NCAA Division I College World Series--I would have voted ``aye.'' On H.R. 5604--Surface Transportation Savings Act of 2010--I would have voted ``aye.'' On H. Res. 1516--Recognizing the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II, honoring the service members who fought in World War II and their families, and honoring the service members who are currently serving in combat operations--I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my sincere apologies for missing votes on July 19, 2010. I am proud of my excellent attendance record during my time in Congress and regret that I must personally attend to matters in my district. Although I will not be able to cast votes on July 19, 2010, I would have voted as follows had I been present today: on H. Res 1472--Expressing support for designation of the week of September 13, 2010, as National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week--I would have voted, ``aye''; on H. Con. Res. 126--Recognizing the 50th anniversary of Title VI international education programs within the Department of Education--I would have voted, ``aye''; on H. Res. 1219--Expressing support for designation of September as National Child Awareness Month, in addition--I would have voted, ``aye''.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Republicans, sadly, apologized to BP and call Wall Street reform an ant being hated by the U.S. Government. Meanwhile, they continue to say ``no'' to Democratic Party attempts to extend unemployment insurance benefits for the next 6 months. They're calling these benefits an ``entitlement'' and say that they're being abused by folks who can't find a job. And this despite an analysis by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office suggesting that extending unemployment benefits is the most cost-effective and fast-acting way to spur the economy. Congressional Republicans support the special interests that benefited from George Bush policies and created the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. A decade of Republican rule nearly doubled our national debt. Why would we go back to that?

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3967, a bill to amend the National Great Black Americans Commemoration Act of 2004 to authorize appropriations through fiscal year 2015. The funds, approximately $5 million, would be used by the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum in order to build a Justice Learning Center. I would also like to commend my esteemed colleague, Representative Elijah Cummings, for his dedication to the preservation of Black American history. In 1983, Drs. Elmer and Joanne Martin opened the doors to the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum. It is the first wax museum of African-American history in the nation, and the first wax museum in Baltimore, Maryland. The facility was created to stimulate an interest in African-American history by revealing little-known and often neglected facts of history. The founders also sought to improve race relations by dispelling myths of racial inferiority and superiority, as well as use the figures of great leaders to inspire and uplift African Americans to reach their full potential. In 2004, the National Great Black Americans Commemoration Act of 2004 was signed into law. The act directed the Attorney General to make grants available to the Great Blacks in Wax Museum, in part for building a Justice Learning Center, and also for carrying out programs relating to civil rights and juvenile justice. Though the legislation passed, no funds were distributed to the museum and the museum continues to operate on funding from private donors just as it has for the past 27 years. The Justice Learning Center will serve as another venue for the museum to educate and empower citizens with information relating to Black American history. H.R. 3967 gives this Congress an opportunity to support the museum in this project. Mr. Speaker, fellow colleagues, it is imperative that we support this bill. Should we fail to pass this legislation and appropriate funds to the Great Blacks in Wax Museum, great Georgians like Andrew Bryan, founder of the first American black Baptist church, in Savannah, GA, and Julian Bond, a former civil rights leader, United States Congressman, and recent chairman of the NAACP, would go unnoticed and overlooked along with other African-American leaders. In addition to all of the war funding, foreign aid, and domestic agendas we support, I believe our goal should also be to preserve and maintain our rich history for our children and generations yet to come. I urge my colleagues to stand with me and support this legislation.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H.R. 4973, the National Wildlife Refuge Volunteer Improvement Act of 2010. I would like to thank Congressman Kratovil for introducing this important bill and acknowledging the importance of the preservation of wildlife to our nation. This bill would reauthorize volunteer programs and community partnerships for national wildlife refuges. Volunteers are essential to the operation of these refuges and the preservation of our environment. Wildlife Refuge volunteers assist with laboratory research, photographing natural resources, conducting population services, and leading tours for visitors. Volunteers help provide important services to the public at no cost to taxpayers. Their service improves the quality of the visitor experience at our National Wildlife Refuges. This bill would also require the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to publish a national strategy for the use and coordination of volunteers. The National Wildlife Refuge system is the premier system of public lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife and plants. The mission of the Refuge System is to manage a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management, and where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitat. It is the volunteers that help make this mission possible and this bill will make sure that these volunteers have the resources they need. I strongly support our National Wildlife Refuge system and am heartened that so many Americans choose to volunteer their time on National Wildlife Refuges. I feel strongly about the importance of protecting our natural world. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill in efforts to preserve our environment, one small step at a time.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, ladies and gentlemen out there in TV land, I could not go to sleep tonight until I got off my heart what has been on it, particularly over the last few days. What's on my heart is such pain and empathy for the people of this country who want to work but can't find a job, people who have worked all of their lives only to be caught victimized by the financial meltdown that took place in October of 2008. The biggest downturn since the Great Depression. Eight million jobs lost. Those are real jobs affecting real people, affecting their children, affecting their parents and grandparents; people who had been accustomed to being a part of the middle class and now they find themselves out of a job, out of work for an extended period of time. And, by the way, I must tell you that this portion of today's proceedings is a Special Order of the Progressive Caucus. And so these 8 million jobs were caused--or the loss of these 8 million jobs were caused by the shenanigans on Wall Street. There was an endless, or what must have seemed like an endless party for the Wall Street crowd. Stocks, bonds, dividends. They couldn't be happy just with those profits. They had to come up with other ways of making money. They came up with these hedge funds that enabled someone to sit at a computer without producing anything and make money just by buying and selling various security instruments. And those secured instruments or instruments of securities--or securities--were largely the product of these 8 million people who lost these jobs. Largely, those securities were generated on the backs of the middle class people who had used their money, used their earnings, used their savings to buy a home, and they bought a home. Oftentimes, they were steered into what we call a predatory loan, which is nothing more than a high-cost loan, a loan with exorbitant costs. And these loans were primarily directed to minority communities. And once those targeted communities had been saturated with those predatory high-cost loans, then that industry turned its attention to another vast market untapped. It was middle class America, all over America. And all of these high-cost loans were packaged together and sold as securities on Wall Street. These loans featured such attributes as no money down or low downpayments. Sometimes no documents required or a no-doc loan. They had adjustable rates, adjustable mortgage rates. They had other features like clauses that prevented you from refinancing without suffering a penalty. These high-cost loans, once the requisite amount of time had gone by, then the loans would be adjusted upwards. And when that adjustment was made, the people found out that they were unable to meet those new monthly payments. And so, therefore, they would simply refinance, pay another yield spread premium, stripping the equity from their property and giving it to the mortgage broker in return for placing them in another predatory loan. And everything was going fine, these high-priced loans packaged as securities being sold on Wall Street, or being sold by Wall Street to entities and people throughout the world. And it was all based on the rising home values that everyone just assumed would continue to go up. But at some point, people started defaulting on those high-cost predatory loans all across this Nation. And when that happened, the people who had purchased the securities that were backed by those now unperforming loans realized that they had worthless paper in their hands, and so it became a run on the bank. Now, keep in mind, these people and entities that had bought or purchased these securities had also purchased insurance from AIG to make sure that, if the security ended up becoming useless, then AIG, like an insurer should, would pay them for that loss. And so AIG was put in a perilous situation. And so what happened there, then it became a bailout situation. Are you going to let AIG fail along with all of these other investment banks which were steeped heavily with these toxic securities? So, along came the Bush plan to restabilize the economy through the Wall Street, the notorious Wall Street bailout, $700 billion. And you would think that the banks would have used that money to lend to smaller banks, the Wall Street banks would have used that money to lend money to the smaller banks, and those smaller banks then could use that money to lend to small businesses and to large businesses as well; and in that way, we would have had more job creation to try to put a dent in this 8 million jobs lost. But no, they did not do that. What did those Wall Street banks do? They didn't loan money to small businesses to expand and hire new workers. And, in fact, in 2009, total lending by U.S. banks fell 7.4 percent, the steepest drop since 1942. Now, keep in mind, they just got $700 billion in October of 2008. 2009, total lending fell 7.4 percent, the steepest drop since 1942. And the 22 firms that received the most bailout money cut small business loans by $12 billion in 2009. Meanwhile, the top 38 largest financial firms gave out $145 billion in taxpayer money, in record pay, to their employees--this was in 2009--and an 18 percent increase in pay for their employees over 2008. In the first 3 months of 2010, four of the leading financial firms, including Goldman Sachs, reported profits of $14 billion. It is time for that money, ladies and gentlemen, to be returned to Main Street. What Wall Street has done is taken that money that should have been invested in Main Street to create jobs for the American people. Instead, they took that bailout money, and they gave record pay to their employees--$145 billion in the year 2009. Nobody is crying about that. Everybody is crying about the deficit. Nobody is talking about job creation. Are you a job creator, or are you a deficit reducer? What is most important? What would be most important to you? If you are sitting on your couch, listening to what I have to say, and if you have heard all of the stories about how deficit and spending has to be cut and if you know the government is driving us into the ground with deficit spending and then if you're sitting there without a job, what is more important to you--deficit reduction or job creation? I submit to you that, if you are not a job creator, then you are barking up the wrong tree as far as what can be done to ease the deficit and to eliminate it eventually. You won't do it unless you have jobs. You won't do it unless you have an economy based on jobs, based on middle class people, based on people going to work every day, spending their money purchasing cars, purchasing homes, purchasing consumer goods. That's how the economy starts thriving again. It's not trickle down, the old Ronald Reagan trickle-down theory, which later was called ``voodoo economics'' and which has been in force all the way up through this Wall Street meltdown. That trickle-down economics is what actually caused this right here. So we have got to build our economy from the ground up, not from the top down. This $700 billion should have gone to help create more jobs from the ashes of that failed economic policy instead ended up going-- where?--right into the pockets of the folks on Wall Street. So I am here tonight, ladies and gentlemen, to talk about job creation. I am here to try to ease your mind a little bit about the deficit, because what is really important is for Americans to go back to work.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in order to express my support for House Resolution 1412, congratulating the Government of South Africa upon its first two successful convictions for human trafficking. I would like to thank Representative Smith for his efforts on this resolution and his dedication to eradicating human trafficking throughout the world. This summer people all over the world are watching South Africa. The country is hosting the 2010 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup. South Africa is estimated to attract nearly 2.7 million local spectators and anywhere between 350,000 and 500,000 visitors from around the world. South Africa has made huge efforts within the last several months to ensure that their country is safe, secure, clean, and comfortable for tourists and visitors. A large part of that effort to prepare for this event has been a notable reduction in, and increased prosecution of, human trafficking. This resolution congratulates South Africa on its efforts and the recent successful convictions for human trafficking. The Department of State reports that, ``South Africa is a source, transit, and destination country for trafficked men, women, and children . . . . Children are largely trafficked within the country . . . to urban centers like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Bloemfontein--girls trafficked for the purposes of commercial sexual exploitation and domestic servitude; boys trafficked for forced street vending, food service, begging, crime, and agriculture . . .'' I am very pleased that the South African government, in conjunction with other nongovernmental agencies including the Tshwane Counter- Trafficking Coalition for 2010 and Cape Town Tourism has invested resources and energy into preventing human trafficking during the 2010 FIFA World Cup and I hope that these efforts will continue. I want to congratulate the South African Government for its enormous stride in addressing human trafficking. I also want to urge the government to move quickly to adopt the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Bill in order to facilitate future prosecutions, as well as prioritize anti-trafficking law enforcement during the 2010 FIFA World Cup through expanded law enforcement presence, raids, and other measures in areas where trafficking for labor and sexual exploitation are likely to occur. I truly believe that we can eradicate human trafficking and make this world a safer place for all people, and urge my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I rise to urge my colleagues to support the rule and the underlying bill, the DISCLOSE Act. I strongly support the DISCLOSE Act, which recognizes the significant contributions of libraries, librarians, and library workers to our nation's communities. In Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, the Supreme Court opened the floodgates to unrestricted special interest campaign donations in American elections--even from entities controlled by foreign governments. In that case, the Supreme Court ruled that all organizations, corporations, and unions are free to take unlimited corporate money and make unlimited political expenditures. The DISCLOSE Act would strengthen disclosure of election ads and would force corporate CEO's to stand by their ads by appearing on camera to say that he or she ``approves this message.'' This bipartisan legislation would control the flood of special interest money into America's elections. Powerful special interests and their lobbyists should not be able to drown out the voices of the American people with their pocketbooks. The DISCLOSE Act would establish touch disclosure requirements for election-related spending by big oil corporations, Wall Street and other special interests, so the American people can follow the money and see clearly which special interests are funding political campaign activity and trying to buy representation in our government. This legislation would also prohibit foreign entities from manipulating the outcomes of American elections and help close other special interest loopholes. Further, the DISCLOSE Act would ensure that social welfare organizations with membership of 500,000 or more, stand by their political ads and prohibits them from using corporate dollars for campaign purposes, while respecting privacy of their contributors. I believe that people need to know who is paying to influence their elections. According to a recent Washington Post-ABC poll, the American people agree. Eight in ten Americans opposed the high court's ruling, including seven out of ten Republicans, and 72 percent favored congressional action to curb the ruling. Congress should act now to pass this important bill. I strongly support the DISCLOSE Act and urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 284, introduced by Representative Sessions, which recognizes the hard work and importance of special education teachers. In 1972, the U.S Supreme Court ruled that people with special needs or disabilities had the same right to the quality education in public schools as their nondisabled peers. This monumental case changed the way we view children with special needs as well as the increased need for teachers who are certified for educating children with special needs. Actually, today, about 10 percent of all school-aged children receive special education services. This number shows the necessity and importance of special education teachers nationwide. It takes an exceptional person to educate children with disabilities. Special education teachers have to adapt to a wide variety of needs ranging from children who have autism, hearing and seeing impairments, and even orthopedic impairments. Special education teachers have to come up with individual-specific plans for each child enrolled in their class, tailored to help children reach their full learning potential. Special education teachers must possess unique characteristics including extreme patience, organization capabilities, and the ability to understand each individual's needs. What makes these unique characteristics and hard work of these educators especially significant is the fact that they help improve the lives of the neediest amongst us, the special education students. Therefore, it is evident that these special education teachers' hard work and dedication is truly deserving of the appreciation that Congress offers within H. Con. Res. 284. DeKalb County School System located in the Fourth District of Georgia has a history of focused care and concern for students with special needs. In fact, DeKalb County School System has an internationally recognized Exceptional Education and Support Services Division that provides a support system for the students with special needs as well as for their parents. I am proud of programs within my district, such as this support division, that help special education teachers by giving them the option to offer this support system to their students. I want to personally thank the special education teachers in my district and across the United States. I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 1244, sponsored by Representative Ciro Rodriguez of Texas, recognizing the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CCDC) for their five-year effort in promoting a cyber security curriculum in institutions of higher learning. I believe that because the contestants are tested on their operational and management skills in network infrastructures and keeping defense systems safe from hackers, the CCDC not only benefits the competitors but support educators, students, the community, and the Government. Cyber defense is important to my constituency in Georgia, as well as to our nation as a whole because as our technology capabilities grow nationally so does the threat to our network operations. I share the concerns of many Americans that information privacy and security is compromised as more and more information becomes electronic. Everyday, Americans fill out doctor's forms, insurance forms, credit card forms, and other documents that are digitized and stored at a data center somewhere. Too often, we find out that this information has been compromised in some way, whether intentionally by a hacker or accidentally through poor data management. Once compromised, one can never know how their personal information could have been accessed and how it may be used in the future. As more and more data becomes electronic, clearly we should invest in a cyber security system that is capable of protecting this data. I am proud to recognize the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition today because it is not only a way to allow talented individuals an opportunity to provide infrastructure assurance and security; it also challenges students to protect corporate network infrastructures and business information systems. I congratulate the 2010 National Collegiate Cyber Defense Champions on their win and I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for S. 1510, the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division Modernization Act. I support the underlying bill but I want to highlight language that would allow the Department of Defense to waive, on a case by case basis, repayment of Voluntary Separation Pay for certain individuals. I worked on this issue during the National Defense Authorization Act markup and am pleased that the House will approve this important language within this bill. Many individuals, who had voluntarily retired, responded to their country's call and returned to service at DOD following 9/11, and several more returned following Hurricane Katrina. According to the House Armed Services Committee, an estimated 22 individuals would benefit from this language in my home State of Georgia, and an estimated 40 individuals would benefit across the nation. Current law allows the Department of Defense to offer voluntary separation incentive pay for individuals to voluntarily retire. If an employee receives this separation pay and returns to federal service within 5 years, the individual must repay the amount received--unless the individual is considered to be the only qualified applicant available for the position. Before being rehired, these individuals were assured that they would not have to repay the VSIP--because their country needed them. This language provides short-term, limited authority to the Secretary of Defense to waive on a case-by-case basis repayment of the separation pay. This limited, case-by-case waiver authority, meets the objectives of the Civilian Human Resources Strategic Plan to: ``provide effective policies and programs related to stability of employment that support management's ability to restructure organizations while retaining needed skills of affected employees and accommodating their needs in an efficient and humane manner.'' Passage of this bill, with this language, will ensure that those heroic Americans, who responded to their country's call to duty, are not penalized. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H.R. 5611, which extends the funding and expenditure authority of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund and to extend authorizations for the Airport Improvement Program, and for other purposes. While I support passage of this bill today, I am hopeful that the House and Senate will soon agree on a full reauthorization of these important programs. This bill offers a necessary extension of one month of these two programs. The Transportation and Infrastructure and Ways and Means Committees each approved these extensions. First of all, the Airport and Airway Trust Fund provides funding for the federal commitment to the nation's aviation system through several aviation-related excise taxes. These taxes are vital to fund the continued maintenance, expansion, and improvement of the nation's airports and airway system. The second program, the Airport Improvement Program, works to maintain and improve the safety and efficiency of air travel. I urge my colleagues to take advantage of the additional time that these extensions offer in order to reach a compromise with the other body regarding the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act. It is absolutely essential that the House and Senate resolve their differences quickly so that our nation's air travel system can function safely and efficiently. This year, Congress has passed legislation to create and maintain jobs in all different sectors in order to improve our economy. If we allow the authorization of these airport programs to expire, we will take steps in the wrong direction by eliminating the jobs that employ people in these two programs. In fact, the reauthorization of the funding and authority for the Airport and Airway Trust Fund and the Airport Improvement Program is also important for the economy of my Congressional district. The 4th district of Georgia has the second largest airport in Georgia, Dekalb Peachtree Airport, which is responsible for around 7,300 jobs and it generates $130 million worth of personal income for these employees. If temporary or the eventual permanent reauthorization of these programs fails to pass Congress, it would evidently be devastating for my district, and the Nation. Again, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Let's get right down to it. Why are the Republicans opposed to restricting campaign donations in American campaigns both local, State, and Federal? Why? It's because Republicans favor Big Business and Big Business favors Republicans. With all of these unlimited dollars flowing through, we'll see more Republicans getting elected, both local, State, and Federal. What it means is that BP, a corporate wrongdoer, foreign corporation, can influence elections. It means Goldman Sachs and other corporate miscreants can influence elections, no limit, no boundaries. That's what will happen if we don't pass the DISCLOSE Act.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H.R. 1457, which recognizes the one-year anniversary of the Government of Iran's deceitful manipulation of Iranian elections and the Government's continued violation of Iranian citizens' democracy and their human rights. One year ago, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was re-elected to become the President of Iran in an unfair and manipulated election. Since then, this date, the Iranian regime, run by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, has continually violated the human rights of innocent Iranian citizens, brutally beating back popular demonstrations against Mr. Ahmadinejad's election. This resolution is necessary and desperately important to show the world that the United States does not condone oppression and supports the Iranian people in their quest for freedom and democracy. Our country has always prided itself on the human rights our own citizens enjoy. I believe we should strive to protect and champion the freedoms of people the world over. Unrestricted arrests of innocent individuals, killing of citizens who oppose the government, and extreme oppression of women, all common acts by the Iranian regime, that must be stopped. There needs to be a continued strong disapproving stance taken by our nation towards the destructive and unfair way that the Iranian regime treats its people. As a member of the Armed Services committee, I take this matter very seriously and see the continued reign of the Iranian regime as a national security threat not only to our nation at home, but also to our armed forces abroad. I urge my colleagues to stand with the Iranian people to support this important resolution.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 1359, which calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Gilad Shalit, the Israeli soldier held captive by Hamas since June 25, 2006. Today, 4 years later, Shalit remains a prisoner and Hamas has denied him medical treatment and access to his family. I agree with the resolution's sponsors that his imprisonment is not only a violation of international law and an affront to the international community, but has also impeded the peace process between Israel and Palestine. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has caused tragedy and loss of enormous proportions on both sides. I know that all of my colleagues oppose further loss of life and will support a lasting peace in this region. I am hopeful for the day when two states--an Israeli and a Palestinian state--can peacefully exist side by side. Until that day, both sides must work towards peace and must refrain from aggressive actions. The kidnapping and ongoing inhumane treatment of Gilad Shalit has exacerbated tensions in the region, causing heartache for Sgt. Shalit's family and country, and making peace negotiations more difficult. I stand for peace and human rights and am proud to support this resolution. I can see no justification for Sgt. Shalit's continued imprisonment and urge Hamas to release Sgt. Shalit. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting peace and human rights by supporting this important resolution.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 1464, which recognizes the 50th anniversary of the conclusion of the United States-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security, and expresses appreciation to the Japanese government and people for their contribution to peace, prosperity and security in the Asia-Pacific area of the world. I am proud of the legacy of this treaty, which has enabled the U.S. and Japan to establish and maintain an alliance that has been vital to the stability of the Asia-Pacific region and the economic strength of both parties. Fifty years after the signing of the treaty, the U.S. can count Japan among its foremost allies. Looking back at the American-Japanese relationship over the last century, the distance our nations have come from the wartime hostility of the 1940s and the tensions of the 1950s is praiseworthy and inspirational. Today, Japan is the fourth-largest trading partner of the U.S., and the security and support the U.S. has provided to Japan have enabled greater Japanese participation in humanitarian, economic, and environmental issues at home and abroad. As the Japanese government takes commendable action toward the denuclearization of North Korea, it is important that the U.S. continue to aid Japan and its neighbor states in their stand against the North Korean regime. Japan has also shown exemplary leadership in the Asia- Pacific region, contributing generously to earthquake relief efforts in Haiti, economic programs in Afghanistan, and the U.S. Navy's Pacific Partnership. As the world's two largest economic powerhouses and staunch military allies, Japan and the U.S. have profited immeasurably from the past 50 years of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. I look forward to the future of the partnership of our two nations, with high hopes for what we can accomplish together. I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support of H. Res. 1350 which recognizes June 20, 2010 as World Refugee Day. I want to thank Congresswoman Watson for her acknowledgement of this important day by introducing this resolution to Congress. The U.N. Refugee Agency defines a refugee as a person who has fled their country of nationality and who is unable or unwilling to return to that country because of a ``well-founded'' fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group. Hostilities across the world make refugees truly a global concern. Whether the refugees are fleeing government oppression in Sudan or Iran, or fleeing intra-communal fighting, there needs to be more attention given to these displaced and struggling individuals. I believe that this resolution is an outstanding way to recognize the severity of refugees' varying situations by celebrating World Refugee Day. In fact, the reinstitution of many refugees from abroad has happened within the 4th District of Georgia. In 2000, Clarkston, Georgia had the highest percentage of people from Somalia in the United States who sought refuge here from this hostile region. Additionally, I am very proud that numerous national, and international organizations servicing refugees call the 4th District of Georgia and metropolitan Atlanta home. Finally, refugees also affect our nation due to the fact the United States is the single largest refugee resettlement country in the world. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 1350 to express our support and protection for refugees internationally, as well as those now residing within our own nation's borders. I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in order to express my support for H. Con. Res. 285, which recognizes the important role that fathers play in the lives of their children and families and supports the goals and ideals of designating 2010 as the Year of the Father. I would also like to commend Representative McMorris Rodgers for sponsoring this bill and showing her commitment to recognizing the crucial role of fathers. I grew up with both of my parents in my life. My father worked for the Department of Justice for a large portion of his career. He eventually became the Director of Classifications and Paroles for the Bureau of Prisons and was the highest ranking African-American in the Bureau at that time. I saw my father work hard everyday in an effort to provide for his family. His value system transferred to me, and I make it a point to influence my children in the same way my father positively influenced me. I know without a doubt that my father helped me to develop into the man I am today. There are numerous studies and statistics that all show fathers are crucial to the development of a child. Children who grow up with the love and care of their fathers are more likely to exhibit strong self- confidence and are more likely to avoid high-risk behaviors. In honoring fathers with this resolution, I would also like to offer a challenge to all fathers to make an effort to develop healthy, loving relationships with their children. I challenge fathers not to be in the words of the Temptations ``rolling stones,'' but solid rocks on which their families can depend on. Mr. Speaker, it is with upmost sincerity that I support this solution and I urge my colleagues to do the same. It is my hope that this resolution serves as an inspiration for fathers all across this great Nation.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Representative Cummings for introducing H. Con. Res. 288, a resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Men's Health Week, and to urge my colleagues to support this important resolution. National Men's Health Week took place from June 14-20, ending with Father's Day, this past Sunday. The United States celebrated National Men's Health Week to encourage men to live healthy lives, in particular by undergoing precautionary health tests. National Men's Health Week is of vital importance as it helps heighten awareness of preventable health problems and also encourages early detection and treatment of disease and injury among not only men, but young boys as well. Early detection lessens the impact and cost of disease, improves, and often save lives. By encouraging preventive National Men's Health Week and treatment of men's health issues is essential because these issues not only affect men across the nation, but the women, children and all other families members involved in a man's life. The lessons of Men's Health Week have a personal significance for me. Nearly 20 years ago, I went in for a check-up due to constant fatigue and found out that I had Hepatitis C. Thanks, in part, to early detection, I was able to get proper treatment and fight back fiercely against the disease. I am able to stand here now, medication-free and healthy, because of early detection and treatment. Today, thanks to this Congress, everyone in the United States-- including men--have access to affordable health. The health reform law that I supported provides incentives to seek preventive care and makes that care affordable. I urge my male colleagues in Congress and men around the country to see their doctor for regular check-ups, to get screened and tested, and to do what they can to live healthier lives. I encourage my colleagues to support this resolution which encourages men to take simple steps for a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 1407, which enumerates the ideas and goals of High- Performance Building Week. The High-Performance Building Congressional Caucus Coalition has designated the week of June 13 through June 19, 2010, as ``High-Performance Building Week,'' in recognition of the importance of efficient, green building technology in our quest for energy independence. I believe consideration of the environmental impact of each of our buildings is vital to the future of American society, and I agree with the High-Performance Building Congressional Caucus Coalition on the need for awareness of the benefits of high- performance construction. As a Georgia representative, I am proud of the leadership our universities and agencies have shown in the national movement toward environmental responsibility. Several of Atlanta's foremost institutions are stellar examples of American excellence in high- performance building. Emory University's Whitehead Biomedical Research Building was the first building in the southeast to be certified as green. With a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating of Silver from the U.S. Green Building Council, the Whitehead Research Building uses high-performance technologies, such as rainwater harvesting, to operate its 150 laboratories. This building marked the inception of Emory's policy of requiring all newly constructed buildings to obtain a minimum LEED rating of Silver. Also located in Atlanta are the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, whose Division of Laboratory Science in 2005 became the first U.S. government building to receive a LEED Gold certification. Its unique sun-shade structure takes in light and reflects it throughout the building, while simultaneously time blocking solar heat. Aside from the dozens of technological innovations the building boasts, its green design solutions have also saved the CDC an estimated $1 million in annual operating costs. I am excited about the leaps in the science of high-performance building we have seen in my State and across the country over the past decade, and applaud the designation of High-Performance Building Week as I look forward to the bright future of environmentally-friendly construction. I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for H. Res. 546 recognizing the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day, and expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that history should be regarded as a means for understanding the past and more effectively facing the challenge of the future. I would like to applaud my colleague Representative Davis for his persistence in celebrating this momentous occasion in U.S. history. When Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation into law in 1863, he freed the slaves in the confederate states. Though they were free on paper many slaves continued with their lives unaware of their freedom. Such was the case in Galveston, Texas. For two years the black population of this city lived their lives as slaves, as opposed to other southern states like Georgia and North Carolina in which the black population knew of the Emancipation Proclamation. On June 19th, the situation changed when Union General Gordon Granger announced the news of their freedom to the black citizens of Galveston. Seen as one of the last bastions of slavery, General Granger's announcement brought about the end of slavery in Texas. We often praise this country for the great freedom that it affords its citizens, yet Juneteenth serves as a consistent and glaring reminder of our darker past. While it is true that significant strides have been made since then, it is important that we not forget from whence we come and learn from it. I'm proud to represent the state of Georgia in the United States House of Representatives, but I also recognize that the great state I serve did allow the oppression of blacks as slaves. History is a tool to be used for growth--a means through which we can understand and face the challenges of tomorrow. Today Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is now recognized as a state holiday in 36 states and primarily serves to remind, inspire, and encourage future generations. Mr. Speaker, I stand proudly to support this resolution and would urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 242, Honoring and Praising the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People on the occasion of its 101st anniversary. I would also like to commend Representative Green, the sponsor of this resolution, for his commitment to recognizing the accomplishments of this historic organization. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution praising this venerable institution. In 1905, a group of Jewish and African-American leaders came together to discuss the injustices faced by African-Americans and possible solutions. The group led by renowned scholar and sociologist W.E.B Du Bois was known as the Niagara Movement. Du Bois said at that time that, ``[t]he problem of the twentieth century is the problem of the color line''. The goal of the Niagara Movement and its successor the NAACP was to erase that color line. In its earliest years the NAACP fought against the racist Jim Crow laws of the south and campaigned for equal access to voting, housing, and education. The organization's dedication to overturn the ``separate but equal'' doctrine culminated in the unanimous 1954 Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, which declared state-sponsored segregation of elementary schools to be unconstitutional. During the Civil Rights era the NAACP's unrelenting appeals for voting reform culminated in the signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Civil Rights Act into law. Some critics of the NAACP now see the organization as unnecessary and ineffective in today's post-racial world. I respond to that criticism with these words: the color line that W.E.B. DuBois fought against 101 years ago, still exits today. Yes, we are living in a time when our country has its first African-American president; but we are also living in a time when African-Americans are on the whole underrepresented in governmental leadership positions. We also live in a time in which African-Americas account for nearly 51 percent of all new HIV/AIDS cases. Progress has clearly been made, but we have a lot of work to do and the NAACP continues to champion better life for all citizens. Mr. Speaker it is imperative that we recognize this landmark organization for its contributions to this country. Many of us would not be here without their efforts. For 101 years the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People has consistently and effectively pressed for total racial equality and inclusion and I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, and recognize the 101st anniversary of the NAACP.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 1389, which recognizes the importance of fathers to the development of children, support responsible fatherhood, and encourage fathers to be involved in the lives of their children. This Father's Day, we should all contemplate the great value of conscientious fatherhood. Healthy relationships with their fathers help children to grow into confident, successful adults. Thus, the actions of each of America's millions of fathers have a direct impact on the future of our nation. Aside from all of the intangible benefits to children of strong connections with their fathers or father figures, there is also significant evidence that shows the much-improved likelihood of success in school and society of those children whose fathers actively support them and provide a positive example for them. I want to read a quote from author Kent Nerburn, who wrote that there is a certain ``sense of honor that makes a man want to be more than he is and to pass something good and hopeful into the hands of his son.'' I encourage all American fathers to take this charge into their hearts, on this Father's Day and every day. I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res 1422, Honoring the Department of Justice on the occasion of its 140th anniversary. I would also like to commend Representative Sensenbrenner for his commitment to recognizing the department for its many accomplishments. The Department of Justice officially began operations on July 1, 1870 and has been responsible for the enforcement of law and administration of justice for 140 years. The Department of Justice was a major advocate and protector for voting rights in the Southern United States and Georgia during the Civil Rights Era. The Department used its litigators to fight racial injustice throughout the Southern United States. The work of the Department of Justice served in part as inspiration for President Johnson to sign the Voting Rights Act of 1965 into law. The Department of Justice is innately close to my heart. My father worked for many years in the Bureau of Prisons, a subdivision of the Department of Justice, and was the director of classifications and paroles. He was at that time the highest ranking African-American in the bureau. Today the department is headed by Attorney General Eric Holder, the first African-American man to hold this position in the departments 140 year history. It is ironic that the Department charged with justice for all people took more than a century in order to name an African-American citizen as its leader; however his nomination serves as an indication of progress and change. The Department of Justice has championed many successful initiatives including Project Safe Neighborhoods, Project Safe Childhood, and the Presidents Corporate Fraud Task Force. Together these initiatives have resulted in increased protection and safety for our nation's children, as well as record convictions for financial crimes. The Department of Justice has made a significant impact in the state of Georgia through the Southeast Regional Fugitive Force operating out of offices in Atlanta and Macon, Georgia. The SERFTF is recognized nationwide as a leader in fugitive investigations. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to applaud the accomplishments of the Department of Justice on the occasion of its 140' anniversary and I urge my colleagues to do the same. I challenge the Department of Justice to continue its mission of pursuing the administration of justice for all people in the United States.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for H. Res. 879 supporting the goals and ideals of American Education Week. I would like to share a quote from Mr. William Arthur Ward who said ``The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.'' I agree with Mr. Ward about the incredible difference a great teacher can make in a child's life. It is in the classroom environment that an educator can best lay a solid foundation in children's lives by instilling the values of determination and diligence within them. Quality education is thus an essential element to opening the door to a bright future for our country. Madam Speaker, in celebrating American Education Week, we stand to acknowledge and celebrate the true importance of a fine education. During the week of November 14-November 20, I encourage my colleagues in Congress and all Americans to please take the time to appreciate the people who have made a difference in educating children across the nation, especially the local educators in Georgia's 4th District. I would like to personally thank the school board members, administrators, teachers, librarians, counselors, parents, substitute teachers, custodians, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and staff members who have devoted their lives to educating the youth of my district. I truly appreciate the important difference that educators make in children's lives through their dedication and tireless effort. I encourage my colleagues to join me in expressing their appreciation for all educators in the nation during American Education Week by supporting this important resolution.