Betty McCollum

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the staff, volunteers, patients, and families of Our Lady of Peace Home on its 80th anniversary of service to the Saint Paul community. A non- profit community hospice and home health care organization offering care at no cost to those in need, Our Lady of Peace has been a beacon of light caring for more than 25,000 people at the end-of-life and their families over the past eight decades. The Our Lady of Peace legacy in Saint Paul began in 1941 when nine nuns from the Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne traveled to Minnesota from New York to open the Our Lady of Good Counsel Home. This was the sixth home established by the nuns, and their focus then was on serving terminally ill cancer patients without means to pay or care for themselves. This service was started by Rose Hawthorne Lathrop who nursed cancer patients in New York City in the late 1800s before founding the Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne. The hospice home in Saint Paul was the furthest west out of all six homes and took shape during a globally perilous time in history as World War II was waging in Europe. Nevertheless, the grand opening for Our Lady of Good Counsel's home in Saint Paul was set, and they opened their doors on December 7, 1941--a day that would live in infamy for the attack on Pearl Harbor that would launch the United States into the war. From that day onward, the sisters and other volunteers at the home have provided compassionate care for terminally ill patients while bringing comfort and support to their loved ones. Though the modern practice of hospice care was not introduced until the late 1960's, the Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne had been quietly providing hospice care for decades. Throughout those first few decades of service, Our Lady of Good Counsel depended entirely on donations of goods, money, time, and service, and they never accepted payment from patients, families, insurance companies or the government. Today they still rely heavily on volunteers and donations to cover any costs not covered by Medicare payments in order to ensure a free service to patients and families. In 1980 they were able to replace the old Tri-State Telephone Company building in which they were founded with a brand-new building. The new building included a chapel, central courtyard with gardens and a fountain, and two floors for patient rooms; expanding their capacity to the twenty-one beds that remain today. The turn of the century marked a period of expansion and transition for the organization. In the early 2000's they introduced an official hospice program which allowed them to provide end-of-life care outside of their residential facility and serve people in their homes throughout the entire 7-county metro area in Minnesota. They also established the Home Health Care program which provides in-home help with daily living, post-operative care and other therapies. They are also affiliated with the Highland Block Nurse Program which is funded in part by Title III of the Older Americans Act and provides a variety of services for older adults and their caregivers in the Highland Park neighborhood in St. Paul. In 2009 the operation of the home was transitioned to the St. Paul-based Franciscan Health Community, and two years later the home was officially renamed ``Our Lady of Peace.'' Led by President & CEO Joe Stanislav, Our Lady of Peace is served today by four Franciscan Clarist nuns and employs over 130 workers including chaplains, social workers, nurses and a full-time physician. And despite their ties to the church as a Catholic non-profit organization they serve patients from all religious or non-religious backgrounds and walks of life. For 80 years they have upheld their mission to gently comfort and care for those most in need near the end of their lives, wherever they call home, regardless of means. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Our Lady of Peace's benevolent and dedicated staff and volunteers--as well as the patients and families they serve--on their 80th anniversary of service.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the staff and volunteers of Prepare + Prosper as they celebrate their 50th year of service to Minnesota taxpayers. Prepare + Prosper is a nonprofit organization working to build financial health and expand access to quality tax and financial services for low- and moderate-income individuals and families. Through their efforts they have helped countless Minnesotans navigate the tax system, and in 2019 alone, they helped over 12,000 taxpayers file returns free of charge. Prepare + Prosper was founded in 1971 by a small group of economic justice-oriented accountants who began to provide free accounting services to small business owners. Soon after, they also started to provide free individual tax preparation for low- to moderate-income taxpayers. Over the years they have grown into an organization with just over 20 year-round staff members and more than 600 volunteers, and have expanded the reach of their free tax filing services and broadened their offerings to include financial coaching and access to financial products. Two of their current program offerings are Money Mentors and Financial Access in Reach (FAIR) Financial Solution. Money Mentors provides one-on-one mentoring with a financial coach and a network of peers to help participants create a plan for their financial future and ultimately reach their financial goals. Prepare + Prosper partnered with Sunrise Banks to reimagine banking with their FAIR Financial Solution program. This initiative gives low-income families access to checking and savings accounts as well as a small-loan program at low cost, while also providing an alternative to check-cashing operators and payday lenders. In the Twin Cities, more than 194,000 households are excluded from the financial mainstream according to the FDIC, meaning that they may have unpredictable income, lack of access to checking and savings accounts or to affordable credit or loans. On top of this, many households experienced financial stress brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic or needed help to navigate the system and receive their Economic Impact Payments or Child Tax Credits. The staff and volunteers at Prepare + Prosper are an extremely valuable asset to the community as they help Minnesotans overcome these barriers that still exist when seeking greater economic opportunity. And as part of their effort to bridge these gaps, Prepare + Prosper engages in advocacy work to advance policies and practices that will directly benefit people with low- to moderate-incomes when it comes to tax credits, consumer protection and asset-building. They also partner with other community organizations to spread the word about their services and to reach those who may be eligible for benefits like the Child Tax Credit which helps lift families out of poverty. Prepare + Prosper is led today by Executive Director Suyapa Miranda who joined the organization in the spring of 2021 and will lead them into the next 50 years of service with a focus on closing the economic wealth gap in Minnesota by concentrating on developing and implementing programs that serve communities most impacted by systemic economic injustice. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Prepare + Prosper as they celebrate 50 years of upholding their mission of building financial well-being through offering free tax preparation and financial services, and by changing systems to create economic opportunity for all.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (S. 1605). The annual defense authorization bill is important legislation that guides Department of Defense policy and provides a framework for our Armed Forces for the year ahead. The House and Senate have worked together to craft this bipartisan piece of legislation that makes some significant policy changes impacting our service members and their families. S. 1605 makes historic and sweeping changes to the Uniform Code of Military Justice to combat sexual assault in the military by removing immediate Commanders from the decision-making chain regarding the prosecution of crimes like rape and sexual assault. As the Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, our subcommittee has worked to ensure the Department has had the proper resources to combat sexual assault and violence in the military and to support victims. However, the pervasive nature of this societal problem has plagued our military for too long and it is time to make significant changes to the way these crimes are adjudicated. S. 1605 takes this first step, and I am proud of the bipartisan and bicameral work that has been done to begin to address this. S. 1605 supports our men and women in uniform and their families by authorizing a well-deserved 2.7 percent pay increase. It also contains several important provisions to promote inclusion and diversity within our Armed Forces including authorizing additional support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The composition of America's Armed Forces and its leadership must reflect the increasing diversity of our society and this legislation promotes diversity and inclusion within the Services. As our planet continues to face the devastating impacts of climate change, it is critical that the Department of Defense act. Combatting climate change isn't about engaging in social politics, it is a matter of national security. The Department has too many installations that are susceptible to extreme weather events, which leads to too many days when our troops cannot train. And, as the largest procurer of energy in the federal government, the Department must become more energy efficient. S. 1605 makes key investments and authorizes specific actions to address the threat climate change poses to our national security and bolster energy resiliency across the Department of Defense. Additionally, S. 1605 addresses the long-term impacts of PFAS/ PFOA contamination in our communities surrounding military installations. The legislation creates a Department Task Force on PFAS to spearhead DoD's response, as well as authorizes $517 million above the President's Budget Request for PFAS remediation projects. Additionally, this legislation includes Department of State Authorizations that bolsters our essential diplomatic authorities to emphasize the whole of government approach to our national security. This is critically important in the wake of the serious damage caused to the Department of State and our international diplomatic efforts by the Trump administration. I commend the Biden administration's efforts to refocus on diplomacy, on reengaging in our alliances, and on rebuilding the State Department. While I am supporting this legislation and many of the good provisions contained in it, this bill does have areas that I think could have been greatly improved. First, this legislation does not support the Biden administration's efforts to finally close the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The detention facility has been a stain on our global reputation and a detriment to our national security for two decades. I included language in the Fiscal Year 2022 Defense Appropriations Act that would allow for the closure of the facility, so I am deeply disappointed to see existing language on Guantanamo Bay maintained in S. 1605. Second, I am disappointed that the Congress continues to avoid our responsibility to sunset existing Authorizations of Use of Military Force (AUMF). The 2001 and 2002 AUMF's are out of date and have been stretched and reinterpreted by four separate administrations. It is long past time for Congress to have a comprehensive discussion on our Constitutional responsibility to authorize force. That includes having a frank discussion on how drones are utilized by the military and the Intelligence Community. If a new AUMF is necessary, then Congress needs to have the courage to have that debate in public and come to a decision. Last, while S. 1605 contains critically important policy provisions that support our future national security needs, I believe that Congress must be a good steward of taxpayer dollars. That is why I continue to be supportive of the topline funding number in President Biden's FY22 budget request for the Department of Defense and the number contained in the Fiscal Year 2022 Defense Appropriations Act produced by the House of Representatives. While drafting the defense appropriations act this past summer, the committee had serious conversations and made tough, but necessary, decisions regarding our national security budget. The defense appropriations bill that the House produced reflects a balanced approach in appropriately funding our national security while allowing for necessary increases in domestic priorities in support of the American people here at home. We also need to have an honest discussion about having a new round of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) in line with the Department of Defense's recommendations. A new BRAC round could save taxpayers billions of dollars that could be better spent elsewhere. While the authorizers have shared their ideas on how to fund the military in this legislation, it is the Appropriations Committee that will ultimately decide how to fund our Armed Forces. As the FY22 appropriations process moves forward, I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure that the Department of Defense is funded responsibly and that the interests of American people are protected. Madam Speaker, I urge a yes vote on this legislation.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the staff, volunteers and patients of Family Tree Clinic on its 50th anniversary of service to the Saint Paul and Minneapolis communities. As a nonprofit community clinic in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, Family Tree provides education and high-quality, affordable, and affirming health care centered on each person they serve. With its deep roots in Saint Paul, Family Tree began in 1971 when community volunteers and health care workers came together to fill a gap in access to reproductive health care that was brought to light by a neighborhood needs assessment. Family Tree responded by offering non- judgmental and patient-centered care, regardless of an individual's ability to pay. Early on, Family Tree mostly served students from five nearby colleges. Over the years, it has grown to reach people throughout the Upper Midwest. Family Tree is a leading reproductive and sexual health clinic that has strengthened its services to vulnerable and marginalized populations throughout its five decades of service. It operates the Minnesota Family Planning and STD Hotline, which was established by the Minnesota Department of Health in 1978. Through the hotline, Family Tree provides reliable and accurate medical information and education across Minnesota. Family Tree's health education program in schools reaches more than 15,000 students and parents each year. In 2004, Family Tree pioneered a new health education program--still the only program like it in the U.S.--that provides free, comprehensive sexual health education and advocacy services to 800 people each year in Minnesota who are Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, Hard of Hearing, and LateDeafened. Its creation of the LGBTQ Health Access Initiative in 2009 increased Family Tree's percentage of patients who are LGBTQ from 9 percent to 60 percent. Family Tree also partners with the University of Minnesota to train medical students in LGBTQ-inclusive health care services. Today, Family Tree has more than 35 staff members and 50 volunteers who reach over 22,000 people per year through its many programs and services. With the growth of the clinic and increased demand for comprehensive health care, Family Tree Clinic kicked off its next 50 years of service by recently moving into a new clinic and education center in Minneapolis. The new building provides space for more exam rooms and staff, continued expansion of community programs, the addition of telehealth capabilities, and the potential to serve an additional 10,000 patients each year. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Family Tree Clinic's caring and steadfast staff and volunteers--as well of the patients they serve--on the 50th anniversary of the clinic's success at cultivating a healthy community through comprehensive sexual health care and education.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, the ongoing civil conflict in Ethiopia is inflicting terrible suffering on the Ethiopian people of all ethnic groups. The mass killing of civilians, the violence against women, blatant human rights abuses, and displacement of nearly 2 million people are all the consequences of the Ethiopian government's brutal use of military force earlier this year. Now a civil war is raging among armed groups organized along ethnic lines that threatens the lives of millions of innocent civilians and has the potential to destabilize all of East Africa. In Minnesota, we are fortunate to be home to the largest community of Oromo-Americans in the U.S. and quite possibly the largest Oromo community outside of Ethiopia. I am honored to represent many Oromo- American constituents, but I can say they are suffering because their family and friends in Ethiopia have for years been enduring violence, repression, and human rights abuses by the current government, and preceding Ethiopian governments as well. Yesterday, my office hosted a direct dialogue between the leaders of the Oromo Community of Minnesota and representatives of the U.S. State Department's Africa Bureau led by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) Ervin Massinga. The dialogue was an opportunity for the President of the Oromo Community of Minnesota, Ms. Leyla Abawari, and her colleagues to directly share their perspectives, concerns, and recommendations for U.S. diplomatic engagement in Ethiopia, as well as elevate the political and humanitarian issues facing the people of Oromia. The Oromo-American representatives voiced their strong desire for ongoing U.S. diplomatic action with the goals of achieving peace, respect for human rights, democratic political freedoms, the release of political prisoners, and a humanitarian response that alleviates the horrible human suffering faced by the Oromo and all innocent Ethiopians caught in this conflict. I applaud the State Department's diplomatic efforts in Ethiopia despite facing a very challenging situation and I know the Biden Administration is committed to continuing to work tirelessly to achieve peace. I am deeply appreciative of PDAS Massinga's willingness to hear the concerns of the Minnesota Oromo community and respond with direct, respectful, and honest answers. My long relationship with the Oromo community of Minnesota is built on respect for their many contributions the success of our state and country. l will continue to work closely with the community to ensure that their relatives and friends in Oromia, and all of Ethiopia, can live in peace with the hope and opportunity for the future. I include in the Record the following letter from the Oromo Community of Minnesota outlining their views on the situation in Ethiopia and the conditions faced by the Oromo people. Commentary on the Civil War in Ethiopia (Oromo Community of Minnesota) Ethiopia is fast approaching state collapse. The civil wars raging in the north, south and western parts of the country leaving hundreds and thousands of dead, injured, and displaced. The war has featured gruesome human rights abuses, massacre, sexual assault, and substantial humanitarian crisis. The media and international diplomacy have been preoccupied by the war in the northern that involves Ethiopian federal government and allied forces from Amhara, Eritrean forces one side and TPLF/TDF on the other side, the preceding and equally damaging civil war in Oromia has not been spotlighted. For the last three years western Oromia and southern Oromia have been under military command post by supplanting civil administration. Ethiopian government tried to justify the imposition of military as counter insurgency measures against OLA. As Amnesty and other human rights organizations have documented Ethiopian securities have committed egregious human rights abuses, extrajudicial killings, rape, torture, mass arrests, burning village and displacement under the guise law enforcement measures. Most of the victims have been students, farmers, members of opposition parties, families of opposition parties and government employees. So far government have neither investigated nor prosecuted the perpetrators of crimes. Although the situation in Ethiopia continues to be exceedingly volatile, we would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the United States government for taking important steps in pressuring the Ethiopian government and fighting parties to hold a national dialogue. We support the administration's decision to impose sanctions on those responsible for human rights violations. It is imperative that the warring parties, including the Ethiopian National Defense Forces, the Tigray People's Liberation Front, and Amhara regional forces, and other armed groups cease all hostilities, protect human rights, allow unfettered humanitarian access, and cooperate with independent investigations of human right abuses being perpetrated against civilians. Oromos represent over 40 percent of the population, therefore, play a significant role in bringing lasting peace to Ethiopia's problems. It is becoming more evident that the country continues to face a complete destabilization, and the opportunity to take decisive action is closing rapidly. We feel addressing the following significant factors in the context of the entire country is essential to address the crisis. The Oromia region is being devastated by the conflict, just this week, the nation is mourning the loss of Members of Karrayyu Gadaa leadership (the council of an Oromo sacred Instititution who were massacred during a prayer ceremony `Waaq Kadhaa' by government forces on December 1st, 2021. State-sanctioned violence in Western Oromia: Under the pretext of fighting armed groups, government security forces themselves have been the perpetrators carrying out extrajudicial killings, rape, and human rights abuses (see: 2020 Amnesty Report). Drone attacks are continuously being carried out in Wollo and Wollega, claiming thousands of lives. These drones are being supplied by the Turkish, UAE, and Iran governments. Lack of humanitarian access to areas of Guji, Borana, Bale, Wollega, and Wollo that continue to be affected by the conflict in the Oromia region. The detention of the prominent Oromo Political opposition leaders-- Following the assassination of beloved Oromo singer and activist Haacaaluu Hundeessaa, key political leaders and government opposition figures such as Jawar Mohammed, a former Minnesotan resident, and Bekele Gerba was imprisoned in the capital, Addis Ababa. Currently, more than 100,000 Oromo youth prisoners across the country are held without due process of law. An ongoing communications blackout in Oromia Mass imprisonment and ethnic profiling of the Oromo people Lack of freedom of expression (media) and association The profiling and detention of American citizens of Oromo origin in Ethiopia. Recently, Mr. Yonas Gudata, a Minnesotan resident, has been unlawfully detained by the Ethiopian government after traveling there to visit his sick father. The Forced recruitment of child soldiers in the Ethiopian army-- Children as young as eight are being forced into conscription. They are being placed on the frontlines to be shielded from ENDF soldiers. The Rhetoric by regime supporter diasporas despite being pro-regime voices, they continue to undermine the pressure by the U.S. and advocate for the Ethiopian regime to continue their brutality against civilians across the country unchecked. There is clear hate speech by encouraging the regime for mass arrests and violence against civilians. The unnoticed act of those who hold U.S. citizenship, but are involved in the act of armed conflict, and the promotion of a complete annihilation of other nationalities, mainly Oromos and Tigrayans. With communications blackouts throughout the country and the lack of independent press, the regime is using disinformation and propaganda to fuel violence, hide what is happening, and create confusion. Pro-regime forces online are going after international journalists and academics discussing or covering the ongoing crises. Conflict in Benishangul-Gumuz Region: Violence in the Metekkel Zone in the Benishangul-Gumuz Region in western Ethiopia has intensified over possession and control of its fertile and resource-filled land. This conflict has led to incidents of intercommunal violence--between historically marginalized indigenous populations of the region and others who have settled there. As the Amhara Regional State tries to expand its domain, claim the land, and displace the indigenous peoples, the conflict has escalated. PM Abiy Ahmed is repeating a call for Amhara security forces and militias to be involved, raising concerns that even more civilians will be killed and harmed. A report by the UNHCR indicates that thousands of people from Metekkel fled to South Sudan to escape the conflict (see: Voice of America--English and Foreign Policy). War in Tigray: The war in Tigray that began November 4, 2020, continues. Establishing accountability for mass atrocities and war crimes committed at the hands of Ethiopian National Defense Forces, Eritrean soldiers, and Amhara militias and unimpeded humanitarian access to all affected by these hostilities. Sudan-Ethiopia border conflict: Ethiopia and Sudan are currently escalating disputes over the control of the ``al-fashqa triangle'', an area of fertile farming land. According to the UN, Sudanese Armed Forces, Ethiopian National Defense Forces, including Amhara militia, and Eritrean forces are deployed around the Barkhat settlement in Greater Fashaga. Clashes have been reported since early March (see: Bloomberg). Dam dispute between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan: The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), located in the Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State, has been under construction since 2011. It remains a contentious project among the three countries because of competing interests to provide cheap electricity and protect the fresh water supply from the Nile. Despite negotiations that have lasted years and include the U.S., Sudan, Egypt, and Ethiopia, they have failed to reach an agreement. In July 2020, Ethiopia began filling the dam's reservoir without a deal, adding to the growing animosity among the three countries. Ethiopia has rejected Sudan's call for outside help in mediating (see: U.S. News). Crisis of refugees and forcibly displaced persons from Oromia and southern nations of SNNPR and Sidama regional states: On March 7, 2021, hundreds of fleeing migrants who had been forcibly detained in Yemen were killed and injured in deliberate fire at a detention center in Yemen. (See: Human Rights Watch). It appears that Abiy Ahmed's promises made in 2018 to transition Ethiopia into a democracy has slid back to authoritarianism, causing an influx of people from Oromia, SNNPR, and Sidama regional states to countries in the Middle East seeking refuge, many of which have found themselves stuck in war-torn countries like Yemen. Increasing state brutality against local dissenting populations from special police, local police, army, and Republican guard is mounting dramatically. These circumstances are causing a massive outflow of migrants seeking safety and work. Ethiopia is on the brink of entirely destabilizing. It is critical for a national dialogue, which includes opposition leaders, parties, and stakeholders, to be convened by an independent third party to address and resolve the complex crises ravaging the country. As stated above, the window of time is rapidly closing for the United States to leverage its influence in a way that salvages prospects for democracy in this vitally important country and region.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, we are here today to prevent the Republicans from shutting down the Federal Government tomorrow. Republicans in the U.S. Senate are holding the FY 2022 appropriations process hostage by refusing to do any work, let alone negotiate with Democrats. Rather than doing their job of funding the Federal Government, Senate Republicans want to kick the can down the road, wasting the first 4\1/ 2\ months of the fiscal year. As chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, it is clear that Republicans are undermining our national security. They are increasing waste and inefficiency, they are weakening our military readiness, and they are sending a signal to our troops and the millions of workers in the defense industry that they are not a priority. The American people should be sick and tired of hearing Republicans in Congress talk about how we need a stronger national defense while doing everything in their power to weaken our national defense. This is a time of instability in the world. Russia is knocking on the doorstep of Ukraine. China is at the doorstep of Taiwan. There are serious national security threats in the world. When our adversaries look at Congress, they see Republicans playing political games rather than investing in research and modernization. What kind of message does that send to our adversaries? What kind of message does that send to the men and women of our military, who we ask to do the toughest jobs while putting their lives on the line? I am voting for this continuing resolution to prevent a Republican shutdown. But I must say, while this CR is necessary, I find it to be unacceptable as an outcome.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from New Mexico for the generosity of the time. As the author of H.R. 4352, I rise to encourage all of my colleagues to join in this bipartisan effort to end discrimination against Tribal nations and to ensure that all 574 federally recognized Tribal nations have the equal ability to restore their homelands through the Department of the Interior's fee-to-trust process. This bill would confirm Congress' intent that the Indian Reorganization Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to place land into trust for all federally recognized Tribal nations, regardless of their date of recognition. Let's be clear, what is at the heart of this bipartisan legislation is equality. All 574 federally recognized Tribal nations deserve to have equal access to the Federal process for restoring their homelands. The U.S. Supreme Court's 2009 Carcieri decision violated this equality principle by forcing a two-tier system for the Department of the Interior's fee-to-trust process: One process for Tribal nations federally recognized before 1934 and a different process for Tribal nations recognized after 1934. Carcieri imposed on federally recognized Tribal nations an unfair, separate, and unequal process, a fundamentally discriminatory process for restoring their homelands. Now is the time for Congress to fix this blatant discrimination against Tribal nations. For over a decade now, Tribal governments and Native American organizations have prioritized a clean Carcieri fix. The president of the National Congress of American Indians, Ms. Fawn Sharp, made the following statement, ``Carcieri has effectively created two classes of Tribal nations and has overburdened Tribal, Federal, and State resources by generating unnecessary conflict over the restoration and retention of Tribal homelands, and consequently impeded economic development. ``NCAI strongly encourages Congress to end this turmoil by enacting a congressional fix to the Indian Reorganization Act which reaffirms the Secretary of the Interior's authority to restore Tribal homelands for all federally recognized Tribal nations.'' Chief Kirk Francis of the Penobscot Nation and president of the United Southern and Eastern Tribes, USET, adds his support, saying, ``Homelands are essential to exercising Tribal Government authority, protecting our cultural identity, and foundational to growing our economies. After decades of Federal efforts to diminish our homelands, placing land into trust is a critical aspect of the Federal Government's trust and treaty obligations and righting these historical wrongs.'' For years elected Tribal Government leaders have told Congress repeatedly that the Carcieri decision has caused significant hardship and has created second-class status for Tribal nations when it comes to restoring their homelands. Tribal governments currently experience enormous time and scarce resources fighting Carcieri-based lawsuits. For example, Chairman Tom Wooten of the Samish Indian Nation in Washington State supports this bill, saying, ``H.R. 4352 will help right past wrongs by the Department of the Interior and enable the Samish Indian Nation to move forward in reestablishing our homeland and rebuilding our community. ``In 2018, the Interior Department approved the Tribe's trust land application for 6.7 acres after an over 9-year process to complete a Carcieri analysis. The Department's decision is tied up in endless litigation based upon Carcieri. ``This bill would stop frivolous litigation to ensure that no other Tribe has to go through what we went through.'' Madam Speaker, this is why we need to take action today, to pass a clean Carcieri fix. Since the 2009 opinion, Members in both Chambers of Congress, both Republicans and Democrats, have introduced legislation to restore the original intent of the Indian Reorganization Act. This is a completely bipartisan issue. In fact, I will say it is a nonpartisan issue. This bill restores a fair and equal land-into-trust process, which is a fundamental responsibility within our government- to-government relationship with all federally recognized Tribal nations. Last Congress, the House overwhelmingly supported Representative Tom Cole's legislation to fix this longstanding issue for Indian Country, which I proudly cosponsored. Today, I ask my colleagues to join us again in passing a clean Carcieri fix. Madam Speaker, Tribal nations should not be discriminated against because of their date of Federal recognition. The date has no bearing on their existence as sovereign nations, so it should have no bearing on their right to reestablish their homelands. I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, the United Nations General Assembly has designated the 29th of November for the annual observance of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. It was on November 29, 1947 that the Assembly adopted the resolution on the partition of Palestine. On November 29, 2021, in recognition of the Palestinian people and this annual observance I issued the following statement that I include in the Record: Today, the world reflects on the condition of the Palestinian people who struggle under a brutal military occupation, barely survive under a cruel blockade, exist as second-class citizens inside Israel, and live-in exile far from their homeland. The fundamental human rights all people seek, the rights that ensure safety and security, elevate human dignity, and promote peace and opportunity for the future, have been systematically denied to the Palestinian people for nearly eight decades. The international community has a moral obligation, and I personally feel this obligation, to stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine--defending their human rights, promoting their right to self-determination, and working tirelessly for a path forward toward justice, equality, and freedom for all Palestinians. And, standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people, I call on the State of Israel to end its military occupation, end its illegal settlement expansion and annexation of Palestinian lands, and end its blockade of Gaza. I also call on the international community, including the U.S. government, to end policies that maintain the status quo, allowing for passive acquiescence to Israel's systematical designed and executed actions to deny the Palestinian people a future in their own homeland. It is time for the world community, especially the Biden administration, to take demonstrable steps toward holding all state and non-state actors in this conflict accountable to internationally recognized standards while working for a diplomatic outcome that will achieve peace, security, and a future of hope and opportunity for Palestinians, Israelis, and all people in the region. I am proud to stand in solidarity with the mothers and fathers, the elders, and the children of Palestine. And, pledge to continue to work in partnership with the Palestinian people to build a future of hope and opportunity for today and tomorrow.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, yesterday the House acted to discipline a Member for conduct that was unacceptable and in violation of all standards of decency and civility--conduct that brought disrepute to this institution. I joined 223 of my colleagues--Democrats and Republicans--in passing H. Res. 789 to officially censure Mr. Paul Gosar of Arizona and remove him from his assigned committees. Mr. Gosar recently posted on social media an animated video depicting him graphically killing a female Member of Congress--Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York--and violently attacking President Biden: Millions of people have seen this disturbing and violent video. Incredibly, Mr. Gosar and 207 House Republicans excused this despicable act as ``free speech'' and ``symbolic.'' Producing and disseminating a video depicting the murder of a workplace colleague, of an elected federal official, and a fellow American is not symbolic--it is a threat that is intended to intimidate and inspire violence. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is a valued colleague who deserves to be treated with respect by all Members of Congress, even when political disagreements are significant. Mr. Gosar's use of official resources-- paid for by American taxpayers--to depict the killing of a fellow Member of Congress is abhorrent, and it is conduct that was appropriately condemned by the House of Representatives. This is not a complicated matter. If Mr. Gosar had shared such a video targeting a colleague in any other workplace in America, he would have been immediately terminated. While Democrats and two Republicans condemned his actions, the Republican leader and more than 200 Republican members condoned his actions, defended his conduct, and made light of a death threat against a Member of Congress. Have Republican Members of Congress become so craven that they do not know right from wrong? Do my Republican colleagues not understand the signal this imagery sends to the American people, especially women and youth, that promoting violence--a male Member of Congress brutally murdering a woman, a female Member of Congress--is acceptable political speech? This video is not political or free speech, it is violent misogyny. The fact that it has been publicly defended by 207 Republican Members of Congress now makes such behavior part and parcel of the Republican playbook for how they intend to conduct themselves in the future. As we all know, on January 6, 2021, a mob of thousands of insurrectionists attacked the U.S. Capitol to prevent Congress from affirming the election of Joe Biden as President of the United States. Mr. Gosar did not refrain from embracing these insurrectionists and the violence that threated the lives of Members of Congress, U.S. Capitol Police, and our congressional staff and workforce. Now Mr. Gosar is again embracing violence to send a political message and achieve his political goals. It is reprehensible, and this behavior is destroying our democracy. I take Mr. Gosar's threat seriously because this conduct intentionally sends a signal to people who are more than willing to use violence to achieve political outcomes--as I experienced personally on January 6th. Mr. Gosar's behavior demanded censure by the U.S. House. Furthermore, I strongly encourage federal law enforcement officials to investigate this matter further to determine if his actions reach a standard of criminal conduct that merit prosecution. Every day I work as a Member of Congress in the U.S. House is an honor. Civility is not an option; it is a duty that is necessary if we are to govern and achieve our collective goals as Americans. Republicans and Democrats can disagree--strongly disagree--but we must always remember that we are all Americans, and the American people deserve our service and actions to be conducted with dignity and respect.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I was unable to vote on the Republican En Bloc Amendment No. 2 to H.R. 2119 due to Chairing a Defense Appropriations Subcommittee hearing. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on the Foxx, Letlow Amendment that would have placed unnecessary and dangerous restrictions on women's reproductive rights. Although I opposed this amendment, I voted in favor of the underlying bill, the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act of 2021 (H.R. 2119).

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) Department of Minnesota as members celebrate their 75th anniversary year. For three quarters of a century, the Minnesota JWV has been the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in Minnesota, upholding the national organization's mission to affirm the heroic and honorable service of Jewish veterans and fight against anti-Semitism. The national organization, Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America, was founded by a group of 63 Jewish veterans of the Civil War in 1896 in response to a series of anti-Semitic comments made about Jewish service in the war. JWV is the oldest congressionally chartered veterans' organization and has grown to include over 15,000 members across the country. Saint Paul Post 162 is led by Commander Jim Hassing and was founded in 1938 by World War I veterans as the first Jewish War Veteran Post in Minnesota. In the following years, the official Jewish War Veterans Department of Minnesota was created and today is home to two other posts; the Nilva-Dansky-Neff Post 331, led by Commander Ben Weisbuch, and the Abrahamson-Biglow-Spector Post 354, led by Commander Stewart Mednick. Throughout its history, the JWV has gone above and beyond fighting anti-Semitism through their many avenues of service to veterans and their families. They helped to establish the Jewish chaplaincy within the military and fought for the inclusion of grave markers, including the Star of David, in veteran's cemeteries. They have stood up against the rise of Nazi Germany, campaigned for religious and racial protections in the 1944 GI Bill, and helped pass multiple bills that awarded Medals of Honor to Jewish service members. The JWV has also supported active duty servicemembers by sending care packages to troops during World War II, the Vietnam War, and after 9/11, during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. They also established the National Museum of American Jewish Military History in Washington, D.C. to serve as a tribute to the long and proud history of Jewish American military service. More recently, the JWV has been an active supporter for the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation which would honor the sacrifices made by all those who have served in the nation's longest conflict. As a congressionally chartered veterans service organization, the Jewish War Veterans Department of Minnesota is one of nine organizations that make up the Minnesota Commanders' Task Force, a group created in 1988 that meets regularly to discuss issues affecting veterans and their families across the state. The Minnesota JWV provides an important voice to this group as they act as advisory board to the Minnesota Commissioner of Veterans Affairs and work to develop a unified Minnesota Veterans Legislative Agenda and establish Veterans programs throughout the state. It has been my distinct pleasure to work with this great organization over the years as a lifetime Auxiliary member of the VFW and the American Legion, and as a State Representative and now as a Member of Congress. Led today by Commander Lou Michaels, the Jewish War Veterans Department of Minnesota continues to be a valuable advocate for Jewish servicemembers and their families in the state of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing all members of the Jewish War Veterans Department of Minnesota as they celebrate their 75th year of service to the community.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Jerry Nalipinski who died on October 14, 2021 at the age of 91. Jerry was a decorated veteran of the Korean War and a long-time leader and advocate for Minnesota veterans and residents of the East Metro Twin Cities region where he lived. I first met Jerry when I served on the City Council of North Saint Paul and as a member of the VFW Post 1350 Auxiliary in the late 1980s. He immediately impressed me as a go-to leader and doer on behalf of veterans and the broader community. His passing is a loss that is felt deeply throughout the Minnesota veteran community. After graduating from Johnson High School in Saint Paul, Jerry served with the 31st Regiment, Seventh Division, U.S. Army in Korea as a communication officer, arriving in Inchon Harbor on a troop ship. He served with the American-led, United Nations forces from Canada, Turkey and the other 20 coalition members. Commanders ordered Jerry's rifle company to the front lines shortly after arriving in theater, and he sustained injuries during the battle of Pork Chop Hill for which he was awarded a Purple Heart. He was awarded a second Purple Heart and a Bronze Star during his subsequent service in Korea. Upon his return to Minnesota, Jerry utilized the GI Bill to continue his academic studies. He went to work for Winzen Research, Inc., an aerospace pioneer that created high-altitude balloons in the 1950s and 1960s that were used by the United States Navy in its Projects Helios, Skyhook, and Strato-Lab, that set the altitude record for manned balloon flights. He later worked at Northwestern Bell for many years before retiring. Jerry made a life-long commitment to serving veterans and others. He served as chair of the Minnesota Korean War Veterans Chapter 1 and led creation and completion of the Minnesota Korean War Memorial. Located on the grounds of the State Capitol, the memorial pays tribute to the 738 Minnesotans who lost their lives and honors all 94,646 from our state who served in the war. Service defined Jerry's life, as well as that of his beloved late wife Marilyn, who worked tirelessly along his side until her death in 2013. A member of the Arthur O. Haukland VFW Post 1350 in North Saint Paul, Minnesota, Jerry went above and beyond to serve veterans and their families, working to connect veterans of all eras and to serve the broader community. He served in multiple leadership roles, including chair of the scholarship committee and as chaplain. Jerry led a recent Post effort to ensure that all veterans' graves at Saint Mary's Cemetery were located and identified. Each Memorial Day he organized the volunteers that marked each grave with a flag or marker. Additionally, he was chair of the Ramsey United Veterans Council and vice president of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 5. His efforts included ensuring each family of a deceased veteran received an American flag in a presentation case crafted by residents of the Hastings Veterans Home. Often, he took time to deliver each of these flags personally. Few people who are as selfless as Jerry was, and through his commitment to service, vision and stewardship, our state and our community is much better off. It was a privilege to work with Jerry, and especially to call him a friend. My sincere condolences are with his beloved family, his fellow veterans and many friends. Madam Speaker, please join me in tribute to Jerry Nalipinski for his remarkable life of service to our Nation and our community.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Jon Pratt on the occasion of his retirement as Executive Director of the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. During his more than three decades of nonprofit advocacy work and leadership, Jon has made an enduring impact for residents of Minnesota and has uplifted the important and necessary work of nonprofit organizations across the country. As founder of Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, one of the largest statewide nonprofit associations in the country, Jon created a space to meet the needs of Minnesotans through the growing nonprofit sector--a space which today serves over 2,200 member organizations across the state. A lifelong Minnesotan, Jon began his career as a lawyer in 1977, and in the following decade gained valuable experience through several different jobs. He first organized a statewide lobbying program during his time at Minnesota Public Interest Research Group and traveled the Midwest while learning the ins and outs of foundation work as the regional field director for The Youth Project, a foundation providing grants and assistance to grass roots community organizations. And as campaign manager for future U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone's bid for state auditor, he learned how critical it is to engage government to serve all Minnesotans. He then served as executive director of The Philanthropy Project where he led a coalition advocating for an increase in philanthropy efforts that benefited disadvantaged people across the state of Minnesota. It was these diverse experiences that led Jon to convene a group of local leaders of nonprofit organizations to establish the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN) in 1987. Only the third such trade association of its kind in the United States, MCN was launched to fill the increasing needs of nonprofits throughout the state, with the core belief that sharing information and working together across areas of common interest will be mutually beneficial and uplift the nonprofit sector as a whole. Today, MCN hosts classes and networking opportunities for both new and established organizations, helps groups secure grants and other funding, facilitates a jobs board to connect employers with those seeking a job in the sector, and advocates for public policy changes at every level of government. During his time with MCN, Jon was fundamental in helping elevate the status of Minnesota's nonprofit sector by establishing standards of excellence for nonprofits, codeveloping Grant Advisor--a rating tool for those seeking grants that provides free and honest feedback about the grant process, creating training programs and materials to strengthen the service work of organizations, and conducting years of research on the nonprofit sector to promote transparency and positive change in the field. I am grateful to have worked with Jon for many years on key state and federal policy issues as he led the way in advocacy work on behalf of the Minnesota nonprofit community. MCN was the largest employer group to support raising the state's minimum wage, they worked with the Minnesota Legislature to secure a non-itemizer charitable tax deduction, and through MCN's Minnesota Budget Project, led the charge to expand Minnesota's working family tax credit. Jon's advocacy also spreads beyond the immediate needs of the nonprofit world as he has been a constant voice for public good by opposing state voter ID bills and supporting human rights and equitable social programs. Jon has truly been a champion for nonprofits across the Nation and while his tremendous leadership at Minnesota Council of Nonprofits will be missed by many, his lasting contributions are sure to inspire the leaders and public servants of the future. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the exceptional career of Mr. Jon Pratt.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I am a strong supporter of human rights, Palestinian and Israeli rights. As chair of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, Iron Dome was fully funded in the FY22 Defense appropriations bill that passed out of committee with unanimous Democratic support and no Republican votes. The CR earlier this week added language for a billion dollars for Iron Dome, despite no requests received by me from the Biden administration. Madam Chair, you and I agree, this was a matter that could have been worked out in conference committee, but today we have this emergency bill in front of us. I would like to engage in a colloquy with the chair of the full committee to clarify this important point. Can any funds in this bill be used for the procurement of offensive weapons by the Government of Israel? I yield to my friend for an answer.

Ms. McCOLLUM. Thank you. This bill clearly states that this funding is purely for defensive purposes.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th anniversary of the incorporation of the Village of Birchwood, Minnesota. Residents gathered on September 10, 2021 to kick off its centennial celebration with a public reception at the village hall and unveiling of historic markers. Located just north of Saint Paul in the Fourth Congressional District, this charming village hugs the southern shores of White Bear Lake. Originally part of Grant Township like many other small communities in Washington County, it became a part of Lincoln Township in 1918. Development in the area began to boom after the streetcar service was extended from Wildwood Park to White Bear Lake in 1904. This sparked a community of summer cottages for residents of Saint Paul, who would take the streetcar to vacation on White Bear Lake during the hot Minnesota summers. 100 years ago, in 1921, Birchwood was first incorporated as its own village, though the State Legislature later decided to convert the ``village'' to a ``City of the Fourth Class.'' But the term ``village'' had stuck, and members of the community amended the official name to ``Birchwood Village.'' Throughout its history Birchwood Village has been a wonderful place to experience nature right outside of the bustling Twin Cities, attracting visitors to picturesque public parks and beaches, many of which remain today. Many residents of Saint Paul would travel by lake steamer to shop in White Bear Lake, stopping through Birchwood on the way to collect passengers. The summer residents and permanent villagers relied on local farmers for much of their fresh produce and milk, as the small village was home to only one small grocery store. Many improvements came to the area in the 1950s, including water, gas and sewer service as well as blacktopped roads, a trajectory that led to an increase in permanent residents rather than summer vacationers, and which led the village to officially be designated as the City of Birchwood Village in 1974. The historic Birchwood Village Hall was built in the early 1930's to use as a community building and for other town business, and the city council still holds all of their official meetings there today. The building, which is now the only nonresidential structure left in the town, underwent a renovation in the 1970's and 1980's that including an additional room and new siding, covering the original modernist-style design of Saint Paul architect Magnus Jemne. Then, in the spring of 2021, restoration crews discovered that the original vertical virgin- timber siding was still there in remarkable shape, and the village hall was restored to its original design, just in time for the centennial celebration this fall. The village is led today by long-time resident Mayor Mary Wingfield, who has served in the role for over a decade and has eliminated the town of debt among many other accomplishments. With a population under 1,000, residents take great pride in their storied history and the neighborly atmosphere that has encouraged people to call Birchwood Village home for the past century and is sure to continue to do so for the next 100 years. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognition of the centennial anniversary of incorporation of Birchwood Village.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the centennial anniversary of the Richard Dingle American Legion Post 98 in Saint Paul Park, Minnesota. Just as it has since 1921, Post 98 welcomes veterans into its membership ranks from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Members are committed to fulfilling the Post 98 mission of implementing the goals, aspirations, dreams, peace, and blessings for their country, friends, and families. On August 20, 1919, seventeen local veterans gathered in Saint Paul Park to apply for a temporary charter in the American Legion, the fledgling national Veteran's Service Organization which at the time was just one year old. Two years later, on July 2, 1921, Post 98 applied for a permanent charter for the Richard Dingle American Legion Post 98 in honor of World War I veteran Richard W. Dingle, a private in the U.S. Marine Corps, 5th Regiment, 2nd Division who died during the Battle of Belleau Wood in France. To this day, Post 98 upholds the important work of the American Legion to assist veterans and their families finding careers, expanding their education, applying for health care and other benefits, and providing a supportive community for Saint Paul Park veterans. Throughout its history, Post 98 has been steadfast in service, not only to veterans, but to the entire community. You may find yourself at a baseball game where the American Legion team is sponsored by Post 98, or at the Legion for dinner at the 328 Grill where you are likely to find families enjoying fun and games on the patio. You can also enjoy the Minnesota tradition of ``booya'' a rich stew cooked over an open fire, at the Legion's annual Booya fundraiser event, or stop by their Lenten Fish Fry each spring. Their long list of service work extends to all comers of the community, through donations to veteran's organizations like the Veterans Camp and Hastings Veterans Home, sending monthly care packages to active service members overseas, purchasing three fire trucks for the local fire department, donating school supplies, band uniforms and sports equipment to local students, and even helping to build city parks. Post 98 is also home to the only Honor Guard in South Washington County, leading them to perform at 11 ceremonies each year on Memorial Day along with their service at veteran's funerals and other ceremonies. During the past year, Post 98 demonstrated true Minnesota hospitality and solidarity by extending a hand to union workers who were locked out of their jobs at the neighboring Marathon Refinery for more than six months during a contract dispute. Post 98 opened its doors to keep workers warm during bitter winter months and hosted food drives for all members of the community. Led today by Commander John Dingle, Post 98 continues to be a prominent member of the community as well as a leader in service. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing the members of the Richard Dingle American Legion Post 98 on its 100 years of service to veterans and the community.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Sunisa (Suni) Lee for her achievements during the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympic games, which were held July 23 through August 8, 2021. At the age of 18, Ms. Lee made history in her Olympic debut as the first Hmong-American to represent the United States. She demonstrated outstanding skill and training, winning the gold medal in the women's gymnastics all-around, helping Team USA win a silver medal in the team final and winning the bronze medal in the uneven bars. Ms. Lee is a lifelong resident of Saint Paul, in Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District. I'm very proud to say that she's a graduate of South Saint Paul High School, my alma mater. She joined a remarkable group of 17 Minnesota athletes who qualified to compete for Team USA. Throughout the competition, she displayed a spirit and determination that boosted Team USA and their fans across the United States. Born in 2003 to parents who came to the U.S. as refugees from Laos, Ms. Lee is accustomed to working hard and overcoming challenges. Just one day before leaving to compete in the 2019 U.S. gymnastics championship, her father and top cheerleader, Houa (John) Lee, became paralyzed in a tree trimming accident. Despite this tragedy, John encouraged Suni to go and compete. She went on to defy expectations and finish second in the gymnastics all-around, Since then, she has assisted her father in his recovery, along with her mother Yeev Thoj and her siblings, all while continuing her demanding schedule of academic studies and training. Her resilience and determination reflect the heart of an Olympian. In tribute to Ms. Lee's Olympic gold medal in the women's gymnastics all-around, Governor Tim Walz and Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter named Friday, July 30, 2021 as Sunisa Lee Day in Minnesota and Saint Paul. On August 8, a parade was held in her honor through her East Side Saint Paul neighborhood. Thousands of fans, family and friends gathered on White Bear Avenue to cheer on her victories and celebrating her achievements on behalf of Team USA. Throughout her life, Ms. Lee has been a positive force for her family, her community in Saint Paul, Minnesota and the United States. Her victory as the first Hmong-American to win Olympic gold in the all- around gymnastics category is especially inspiring to Asian-American girls who see her as a role model who is capable of performing at the highest level on the global stage. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Sunisa Lee for her outstanding accomplishments, along with her incomparable talent, extraordinary commitment, and resilient spirit. We wish Ms. Lee well as she begins a new chapter as a student-athlete at Auburn University.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of Officer Ryan Bialke of the Red Lake Nation police force, who was shot and killed in the line of duty this week. My thoughts and prayers are with Officer Bialke's family, especially his young children, and with Chairman Darrell Seki and all members of Red Lake Nation. Their grief is shared by all Minnesotans during this very difficult time. Officer Bialke was responding to a call about a mental health emergency when the scene turned violent, and he was struck by gunfire. He was rushed to the Indian Health Service Hospital where he then passed away. This terrible tragedy reminds us that our dedicated law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to serve our communities as they work to keep us safe, and my thoughts are with the rest of the Red Lake Nation police force. A native of Buffalo, Minnesota, and a six-year veteran of the Red Lake Nation police force, Officer Bialke was described by his loved ones as having a big heart and a love of helping others, a desire to serve which led him to police work. My hope is that his family will find peace and comfort in the many cherished memories they have of him in the weeks and months ahead. I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and community. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Officer Ryan Bialke.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to the en bloc amendments. These across-the-board 20 percent cuts undermine our historic investments in education, agriculture, housing, transportation, broadband, and many other priorities for American families and constituents. I want to thank Chair DeLauro and my fellow cardinals, as well as our dedicated committee staff, for their work in crafting a funding package that will keep our Nation healthy and competitive. As vice chair of the Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, I offer Chair Pingree my congratulations on an exemplary bill that protects human health and the health of our environment. In line with longstanding bipartisan tradition, this Interior bill provides funding to meet our Federal investments and treaty obligations to our Native brothers and sisters and Alaska Natives. The substantial increases in this bill are for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Indian Education, and the Indian Health Service, and it would all be lost with this 20 percent across-the-board cut. This amendment would slash funding for clean water and drinking water infrastructure, even as our Nation faces a historic drought and contamination from PFOS and lead. As chair of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I hear from my colleagues' concerns about national security funding, but the health and wellness of the American people, improving our economy, and educating our workforce are all critical components of a strong Nation, and that is the foundation of strong national security. Every dollar we invest on the domestic side in infrastructure, public health, and climate change contributes to our national security. If we truly mean to safeguard our Nation and its people, we need the investments made in these nondefense bills as well. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose these reckless across- the-board 20 percent cuts.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, the House will not be in session on July 6, so I am taking a moment now to commemorate the 6 months since the attack on our democracy. It happened right here at the United States Capitol. Right here outside these doors where we are standing today. I thank the U.S. Capitol Police, the D.C. Metropolitan Police, the National Guard, and all the Federal police agencies that responded on January 6, 2021. Six months later we have not forgotten your bravery, we have not forgotten your sacrifice, and we thank you.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Harry Melander on the occasion of his retirement as President of the Minnesota Building and Construction Trades Council. During his more than four decades of union leadership and public service, Harry has made a lasting impact through his work on behalf of Minnesota's working families. Additionally, Harry has represented the interests of Minnesotans through his service as a member of the Metropolitan Council, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis Board, the St. Paul Port Authority Board, and the Washington County Planning Commission, among other community leadership roles. Harry began his career as a union carpenter in 1973 and quickly rose as a leader on behalf of his fellow labor brothers and sisters, becoming president the Carpenters Local 87 Union. Later he became a business representative for the St. Paul Building Trades Council, then executive secretary in 1997. Harry focused his work on building relationships throughout the community. Reaching out to elected officials, business and community leaders and developers, he cultivated relationships that are still present today, ultimately increasing the number of jobs for Building Trades union members. After becoming Executive Secretary of St. Paul Building Trades in 2005, Harry was soon faced with the monumental challenge of navigating the industry through the economic collapse of 2008 when some crafts lost up to 70 percent of their work. But thanks in large part to Harry's advocacy and work to build partnerships with the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, state leaders and the City of Saint Paul, the industry was able to keep working on major public projects including the restoration of Saint Paul's Union Depot as the Twin Cities' multimodal transit hub and construction of the Green Line Light Rail Transit. Since Harry became the president of the Minnesota Building and Construction Trades Council in 2009, he has tirelessly promoted growth and advancement of affiliated unions, supported diversity and inclusion efforts in the construction industry, protected health and safety for all workers, and encouraged relationship building with employers, other labor organizations, and government officials. He has been a leader in the transformation toward clean energy jobs, and has navigated the council through the many challenges brought on in the past year by the COVID-19 pandemic and the civil unrest that enveloped the Twin Cities after the death of George Floyd. Throughout it all, Harry has been an unwavering voice for Minnesota's working families, and a dedicated public servant. It has been my great pleasure to work closely with Harry on many projects and priorities over the years, and I know I speak for many in the community of Saint Paul and the East Metro when l say that he has been a tremendous asset to the labor movement. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the outstanding career of one of our state's most effective leaders, Harry Melander.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of Ms. Kao Ly Ilean Her, a Hmong-American leader and University of Minnesota Board of Regent who died on May 13 at age 52 of COVID-19. Ms. Her was a tremendous advocate and a connector for our community and the State of Minnesota. Her passing is a loss that is felt deeply throughout Saint Paul and our state. A refugee who fled war-tom Laos as a young girl in 1976, Ms. Her and her family arrived in the United States and eventually made Minnesota their new home. She excelled at academics, graduating from Hamline University and earning her Juris Doctorate from the University of Minnesota Law School and becoming the first Hmong woman to be admitted to the Minnesota State Bar Association. In 2019, she was the first Hmong-American elected to the University of Minnesota Board of Regents by the Minnesota Legislature. Ms. Her put her natural leadership skills to use for others early on--founding several nonprofit organizations, promoting the empowerment of women and girls and supporting our community in many other ways. She was especially dedicated to efforts supporting youth, respecting elders and advocating for the arts that enrich and sustain us. It was a privilege to work closely with Ms. Her throughout the time I've served in congress, and to experience her energy and optimism for building a bright future for herself and others. During her service as executive director of the Minnesota Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans in the early 2000s, she reached out to my office and volunteered to help lead the successful state efforts to resettle Hmong refugees arriving from Thailand. Her work to help these new Americans transition to life here were invaluable as they reconnected with family members, established new homes and quickly contributed to the economic and cultural vitality of our community. Ms. Her understood the innate importance of family and the power that neighbors have in working together for the common good. Her ability to connect community members and empower others has spurred new leaders in the Hmong-American community and throughout our state. Her own path in life inspires a vision for others to believe in themselves and determine their own futures. My condolences are with Ms. Her's beloved family and many friends. Madam Speaker, please join me in tribute to Kao Ly Ilean Her for her remarkable life of service and leadership for others.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Mr. Pocan, for his kind remarks and for being one of the organizers for tonight's Special Order. Tonight, I am here to condemn violence. I am here to speak out in support of human rights, political rights, and peace. For days, Hamas and extremists in Gaza have been firing rockets into Israel that have caused death, destruction, and fear among Israeli citizens. I condemn Hamas' actions. These attacks must stop. For 54 years, Israel has been enforcing a brutal military occupation in the West Bank that has terrorized Palestinian families. And I condemn Israeli's occupation of Palestine. Israel's occupation must end. What we are witnessing in Israel, East Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank are the bitter fruits of discrimination that has empowered Jewish extremists and Palestinian extremists. People seeking justice, equality, and peace, and opportunity are sidelined, silenced, and dismissed. We are witnessing the all too familiar cycle of violence between Israel and Hamas. And, today, we are witnessing Israeli cities at war. Israeli citizens are attacking each other. Israeli citizens, who are Jewish and Palestinian, are fighting each other. Adding to this hatred is Israel's nation-state law and other structural policies of discrimination that treat Palestinians as second-class citizens. Now, I want to be clear. Israel has the right to have their security, and it must be able to defend itself against rockets. But Palestinians have universally recognized human rights, rights that are not recognized under Israeli military occupation. Palestinians have become people without a nation. Palestinians have no government to defend them when they seek justice when their children are abused or tortured by Israeli military security forces. Palestinian families cannot defend themselves when Israeli bulldozers destroy their homes and turn their land over to Jewish settlers. Israel is an ally of the United States, and Congress supports Israel by providing military aid. And I vote for that aid package. The Iron Dome missile defense system that is stopping Hamas rockets is funded out of the Committee on Appropriations' Defense Subcommittee, which I chair. And I support funding for Iron Dome and it will be in the bill that I write this year. However, Congress sends $3.8 billion to Israel in the form of military aid to be unrestricted and unconditioned. No limits. Proponents of this unrestricted aid to Israel wrote to the Committee on Appropriations: ``U.S. support of Israel makes the region safer and bolsters diplomatic efforts at achieving a negotiated two-state solution, resulting in peace and prosperity for both Israelis and Palestinians.'' To those who support that statement, here are the facts: There are no diplomatic efforts to achieve a two-state solution. The Prime Minister of Israel has repeatedly stated he is committed to annexing Palestinian lands. There is no peace for Palestinians in East Jerusalem or the West Bank. There is an Israeli military occupation that abuses and tortures Palestinian children, demolishes Palestinian homes, and steals Palestinian land. The unrestricted, unconditioned $3.8 billion in annual U.S. military aid enables--it gives a green light to Israel's occupation of Palestine because there is no accountability and there is no oversight by Congress. This must change. Not one dollar of U.S. aid to Israel should go towards the military detention of Palestinian children, the annexation of Palestinian lands, or the destruction of Palestinian homes. I support everyone's universal human rights, including Palestinian rights, to live in freedom; to live with equality, with security, with opportunity. I want peace for the people of Israel and the people of Palestine, and I am willing to do my part to work for justice. Rockets fired from Gaza must stop. The eviction of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem must stop. The burning of synagogues and Arab businesses must stop. And the rightwing extremists that chant ``Burn the Arabs,'' well, that must stop, too. There is enough hate and there is enough blame to go around. And this conflict will not end until there is responsible leadership on both sides. Peace will not take root until the United States stands up for human rights and security for all people, and that includes human rights and security for the Palestinian people. The Biden administration must work for peace and direct some tough love to the Israeli Government and to the Palestinian Authority. End the violence. End the discrimination. End the occupation. Israel deserves security, and Palestinians deserve self-determination and freedom. Tonight, no child should go to bed under the constant fear of violence. We should all want every Israeli and every Palestinian child to live with peace, opportunity, hope for the future. And that is what I am working to achieve with my colleagues.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, since its creation in 1965, Medicare has provided health insurance and access to quality health care for hundreds of millions of Americans over the age of 65. Since then Congress has worked to ensure that Medicare is adapting to meet the needs of the American people. In 1972, Medicare benefits were extended to people under 65 years with long-term disabilities. Hospice care was added in 1982. And, a prescription drug benefit was added in 2003. In 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which I strongly supported, strengthened Medicare coverage for preventive care and reduced patient liability for prescription drug costs. Currently, 44 million Americans--15 percent of the U.S. population-- are enrolled in Medicare. While not perfect, Medicare is without a doubt one of the most successful, lifesaving, and life improving programs ever established by the federal government. Throughout my career in Congress I have fought to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security because these safety net programs provide essential health and economic support that is often the difference between a person living in poverty or living a quality life with dignity. After enduring the COVID-19 pandemic for the past 14 months, there can be no doubt that health care for the American people must be considered a right, not a privilege. Access to quality, affordable health care is essential to our individual well-being, our families, our community, and our economy. Because universal access to quality health care must be considered a right, last month I introduced H. J. Res. 44--an amendment to the U.S. Constitution guaranteeing health care for all Americans. Until it is enshrined in the Constitution, I believe we will continue to have a health care system of winners and losers which will cause physical and economic hardship for millions of Americans. If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it must be that policymakers need to take action to ensure no one is left behind, that health disparities are reduced, and that a preventable or treatable condition should never result in disability, death, or economic ruin. My commitment is to work to expand health care access, improve the quality of care, and to ensure that all Americans who need health care coverage can have it. I will fight to strengthen Medicare and Medicaid. I will work to expand the ACA and strengthen its provisions such as protecting those with preexisting conditions. And, where I have direct responsibility as a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will work to strengthen TRICARE for the roughly 9.6 million enlisted men, women, and their families defending our freedom worldwide; strengthen the Indian Health Service (IHS) which serves roughly 2.56 million Native Americans and Alaska Natives with unique, specialized health services; and, strengthen the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) for the millions of men and women who have served our nation and deserve the quality care they've been promised. There is so much work to be done. Still, too many Americans are being left behind. Too many people will not have access to quality, affordable health care. So, I have come to the realization that it is once again time to expand access within Medicare. I believe that now is the time to start the arduous legislative process of working to provide universal coverage to all Americans and the best policy option to achieve this goal on the table today is the Medicare for All Act (H.R. 1976). This legislation will provide every American with health coverage, while also eliminating out-of-pocket costs for patients and cutting the cost of prescription drugs. Additionally, H.R. 1976 would include vision, dental, hearing, mental health, and substance abuse treatment to ensure comprehensive physical and mental health services for all Americans. After many discussions over the past few years, I want to extend my appreciation to the bill's authors for working with me to address the major concerns that I had with previous versions of this legislation. In particular, previous bills would have forced the VHA, TRICARE, and IHS to be disbanded and folded into the same patient population as all other Americans. This was unacceptable to me based upon long standing commitments and obligations that our federal government has made to these patient populations. With those concerns removed, I am proud to co-sponsor H.R. 1976. The goal is now clear, let's work to ensure that every American can access guaranteed health care as a right, not a privilege. It is my belief that the Medicare for All Act is the legislative vehicle that can best serve the needs and desires of the American people for affordable, quality, and universal health care.