Robert Torricelli

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, June 22, 1996, the Cathedral Second Baptist Church in Perth Amboy, NJ will have a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Donald Hilliard, Jr. community affairs complex. The building will be named in honor of Bishop Donald Hilliard, the pastor of the Cathedral Second Baptist Church. My friend and colleague, Congressman Floyd Flake, will be the featured guest speaker of Saturday's grand event. Reverend Flake not only represents the sixth congressional district in the State of New York but also is the distinguished pastor of Allen AME Church, Jamaica NY, which boasts more than 6,000 members. Rev. Congressman Floyd Flake, a man with a vision of empowerment for the African-American people, no doubt will provide an inspiring message on Saturday. As pastor of Allen AME Church, a post he assumed in 1976, he has founded the Allen Housing Development Fund Corp., Allen Christian School and Multipurpose Center, Allen Home Care Agency, Allen Housing Corp., and the Allen Neighborhood Preservation and Development Corp. Furthermore, through numerous other clerical, civic, and community organizations, Reverend Congressman Flake has sought to provide spiritual sustenance reaching far beyond the walls of church. He also shows his tenacity in the House of Representatives as he fights for racial justice and equal rights for all Americans. Similar to his colleague, Bishop Donald Hilliard, an active and dynamic leader, has also sought to improve the life of not only his members, but of the surrounding area of Perth Amboy, as well. Bishop Hilliard, who currently serves as the senior pastor of the Second Baptist Church of Perth Amboy and Bishop elect of the covenant fellowship of pastors, churches, ministries, and the cathedral assemblies, has nurtured and watched his church grow from a membership of 135 to more than 4,000. Furthermore, he has witnessed the church's budget increase from $73,000 to $3,000,000 annually. Not only does this make his church one of the fastest growing in the State, but is has been cited as a model church for growth by American Baptist churches, U.S.A., as well. Since 1983, when Rev. Dr. Donald Hilliard was called to pastor the Cathedral Second Baptist Church, both the congregation and church have experienced tremendous growth. The successful purchase and renovation of the historic Majestic theater in downtown Perth Amboy has provided a new house of worship for Bishop Hilliard and his members. The cathedral blends turn of the century elegance with state-of-the-art technology to provide its worshipers with a unique combination of history and future dreams. The church also purchased the historic ELKS lodge, directly across the street from the cathedral, which now has been converted into the Family Life Enrichment Center. This facility is complete with an elegant banquet hall with adjoining kitchen facilities, a library, a learning center, and a computer lab. Renovations are continuing on the third and fourth floors which will house offices, classrooms, a lecture hall, and a liturgical dance/cultural arts studio. Mr. Speaker, while Bishop Hilliard came to the Cathedral Second Baptist Church with such credentials as his Bachelor of Arts from Eastern College and Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, he still found time to complete his Doctorate of Ministry from the United Theological Seminary, Samuel D. Proctor Fellow. This dynamic speaker has ha the honor of speaking at various churches, conferences, and conventions across the United States and Nigeria, West Africa. He was a visiting lecturer at Boston University, an adjunct professor at Princeton Theological and New Brunswick Theological Seminaries and adjunct faculty at Essex County College. For more than 12 years, Bishop Hilliard has served as a member of the National Baptist Convention, U.S.A. The national conventions consist of more than 30,000 churches and 8 million Baptist members across the country. He is also affiliated with the American Baptist churches, U.S.A., the Progressive National Baptist convention, the NAACP, United Negro College Fund, served on the advisory board for the Ronald McDonald children's charity, Multicultural advisory board at Eastern College, St. David's, PA, National Advisory Board at the United Theological Seminary, Dayton, OH, Perth Amboy Chamber of Commerce, Middlesex County Youth Services Commission Minority Subcommittee and the Perth Amboy Special Improvement District Committee. Moreover, he has received an award from Soul Brothers Inc. Community Award for outstanding efforts in uplifting the community, the Ronald L. Rice Award for outstanding human services from the NUAC of New Jersey, he was inducted into the Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award from Drew University, Madison, NJ, he was inducted into the Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers at Moorehouse College, named executive of the year by Perth Amboy Chamber of Commerce. He was selected as the distinguished alumnus of the year, 1995, by Princeton Theological Seminary and the Evangelism Award by American Baptist Church, U.S.A. This exceptional pioneer was licensed into the Gospel ministry in 1976 and ordained in 1978. He is married to Minister Phyllis D. Thompson Hilliard and the father of three daughters, Leah Joy, Charisma Joy, and Destiny Joy. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor and a pleasure to pay tribute to the Cathedral Second Baptist Church in Perth Amboy, NJ, its great leader, Bishop Donald Hilliard Jr., and their distinguished guest, and my illustrious colleague, the Rev. Congressman Floyd H. Flake.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. I thank the gentleman for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I too, want to congratulate the gentleman from New York [Mr. Gilman], the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Hamilton] and the work of our committee in bringing this sanctions legislation before the House today. But I would be less than honest if I did not also express some profound disappointment. If this legislation today had come before the House in an amendable fashion, I would have been offering an amendment to provide that the sanctions against Iran would remain in place not simply until it ceases terrorism against the world but until it respects the rights of its own people. In enacting sanctions against Iraq, Vietnam and Cuba, this body respected the rights of the people in those countries and insisted upon strong sanctions until the war against them, their political rights, their freedom and their safety was respected. Somehow with regard to the Iranian people, despite the deaths of the Baha'is, Christians, Jews, a Moslem majority, we take no such action. Because this bill comes before us on the suspension calendar, that amendment is not possible and indeed it is on the suspension calendar so such amendments are not possible. It will be difficult to explain to Iranian-Americans and indeed one day to the people of Iran when they ask, ``You took sanctions to defend yourselves, why did you not take them to respect us? '' Second, Mr. Speaker, I also express profound disappointment because this is not the same legislation that left the Committee on International Relations. We had sanctions against Libya but they were mandatory. Until Colonel Qadhafi handed over to international justice those who were responsible for Pan Am 103, there were going to be sanctions, no ands, ifs, or buts. But between the cup and the lip, they became optional. A sigh of relief in Tripoli, and, frankly, Mr. Speaker, a difficult explanation in my State to the 37 families who thought we were going to have mandatory sanctions and now are left at home wondering why. Mr. Speaker, I have participated in many proud and principled moments on this floor when this Congress has taken strong positions. I am glad today that we, if we alone in the world, stand up to Iran and Libya in their injustice. But frankly we could have done more, for Iranians locked in the prison of their own country who want someone to stand up not only to international terrorism but domestic abuse as well, and to those poor families left wondering why there is an option in standing up to Qadhafi.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, our Nation is witnessing a frightening and despicable increase in violent attacks on places of worship. Indeed, since 1991, more than 152 houses of worship have been destroyed by arson or vandalism. And within the last 18 months, nearly 50 African-American churches and 10 predominantly white churches have been desecrated. Just last night in Mississippi, two more churches were victims of arson. These attacks simply must be stopped. While arson is undeniably one of the most egregious crimes against society, it is even more heinous when committed against a sacred place of worship. Every American and every community must act against these crimes. And congress can take the first step by passing H.R. 3525, the Church Arson Prevention Act. Religion has been a central part of our Nation's culture and society. The burning or desecration of a place of worship not only destroys a vital and important physical structure and moral symbol, but it sends a message of hate and division within the community where the attack occurs. Congress must ensure that those responsible for such hideous acts be punished to the fullest extent of the law. This is not a partisan issue; it is an issue of justice. H.R. 3525 addresses this problem by enhancing the Federal Government's ability to prosecute convicted arsonists and by removing the minimal damage requirement. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of H.R. 3525. We must send a clear and strong message that this dangerous and immoral behavior will not be tolerated anywhere in America.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I rise before the House today to honor a very special company. S. Goldberg & Co., Inc., rose from humble beginnings in 1896 to a position of prominence in the international business world. This month they will celebrate 100 years of business, an achievement I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing. Samual Goldberg first begin making slippers in a tiny shop in New York City's lower east side in 1896, before moving to Hackensack, NJ, the company's present home. After Samuel's death in 1935, his son, Sidney, took over the business and began preparing his two sons, Roy and Stan, to eventually run the company. Thanks in large part to Roy and Stan's present leadership, S. Goldberg employs 450 people and has facilities in Bogota, NJ, and Hong Kong. This truly exemplifies the American dream, as S. Goldberg has achieved success through hard work and perseverance. This company is a leader in the footwear industry because it creates and markets innovative, high-quality footwear that is value priced for its consumers. Equally as important is S. Goldberg's strong commitment to domestic facilities and its worldwide sourcing capabilities. A true family business, S. Goldberg's dedicated employees have worked for the company for up to 60 years. Mr. Speaker, S. Goldberg & Co., Inc., is an inspiration to us all and to the international business community. The company serves as evidence that the American dream is alive in Hackensack and is attainable anywhere with hard work and a commitment to quality.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to funding for expanded international military and education training [IMET] for Indonesia. The actions perpetrated by Indonesia against the people of East Timor have been no less than reprehensible and do not deserve to be condoned by this Government. I do not question the efficacy of IMET programs in general, but rather the value to be gained by the United States in providing assistance to the Indonesian Government. As a champion of human rights throughout the world, the United States should make every effort to ensure that systematic aggression, like that against the East Timorese, is not allowed to continue. In order to do this, though, it is imperative that the Indonesian Government receives a firm answer from this country--such behavior will not be tolerated. Indonesia's invasion of East Timor spawned an era of oppression directed against the East Timorese. Torture, abductions, disappearances, and massacres have all been common occurrences under its rule. The result has been the annihilation of nearly one-third of the East Timorese population. Portugal has strenuously objected to Indonesia's conduct in East Timor, but these objections have gone unheeded. Instead, the international community has silently accepted the situation. However, I refuse to stand idly by as the Indonesian Government is no less than rewarded for its actions with funds from this country. The violence which has been unleashed against the people of East Timor must be stopped. A restoration of IMET funding to Indonesia, though, does not send this message. Rather, it encourages the Indonesian military to perpetuate the cycle of abuse. The East Timorese must be recognized for the basic human dignity we all share. For this reason, I stand opposed to this country's financial support of the Indonesian regime.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Dia de Portugal, or Day of Portugal, which commemorates Portugal's numerous achievements and rich cultural heritage. This is a day for the Portuguese community to rejoice in the strides they have made as a people. More important, it provides the rest of the world the opportunity to heighten its awareness of this valuable segment of our society. Perhaps the most significant aspect of the day is its connection to the Portuguese poet Luis de Camoes. June 10 marks his birthday, and is thus an excellent occasion to recognize his contributions of Portugal's language and culture. As the Portuguese equivalent of Dante and Chaucer, Camoes gave the people a voice for their innermost hopes and dreams. His eloquent turns of phrase are a noted source of pride for the Portuguese people. However, in this day and age, I believe it is important to realize that Portugal has even more to be proud of. Its economy has battled high unemployment rates to achieve greater economic growth, and is now projected to join Europe's single currency in the near future. In addition, foreign investors are attracted by the government's plans to privatize and decrease the budget deficit. Further progress will help Portugal move through the Europe's ranks and increase its economic standing. The rest of the international community should pause to reflect on this remarkable progress and join the Portuguese community in celebration.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, I have never heard of such a modest request, more simple in form or in substance. The Armenian people simply want recorded in history what every schoolchild learns at the earliest stages of their education. They seek no revenge and they come forward with no rancor. They recognize that the dead die twice when the crimes against them are not recorded. In this case, not a few individuals, not just simply a few forgotten souls, but hundreds of thousands, indeed in excess of 1 million, a whole people helplessly locked inside churches, surrounded in villages, hunted down in the streets, the Armenian people suffered the first great genocide of the 20th century. To some it is a distant part of history, but to those who still live with the memories, to those who lost mothers and fathers and other relatives, it is a haunting nightmare. Indeed, Mr. Chairman, for those who care about history, and here in the final days of the 20th century are committed to the concept that the worst of our time will not be repeated, it is more than relevant. The Armenian genocide is compelling. Indeed, the story has been told every year in which I have served in this Congress, and it will be told every year until justice is done. In contemplating the genocide against the Jews, Hitler's first question was, ``Who remembers the Armenians?'' Today I come to my colleagues and I ask again, who is to remember the Jews, the Cambodians, the Bosnians, all the lost souls of history, if every despot and dictator in our time and in the ages to come can believe that their crimes will ever be forgotten, because if they are forgotten, then in the eyes of history, they are forgiven. Mr. Chairman, there are some things that must never be forgotten. Crimes against humanity are one of them. I know every Member of this House wants only friendship with the Turkish people. They have been our ally. They have stood with America. But earlier tonight, in arguing on the corridor act, we asked justice in that it is a despicable crime to deny humanitarian assistance to those who are suffering. At other times we cite the occupation of Cyprus, aggression in the Aegean, crimes against the Kurds. There is a compelling argument that a pattern is developing with the Turkish people against her neighbors. It began with the Armenians. It continues against the Cypriots and the Kurds, and in this Congress we do no favor to our friends in Turkey to deny this simple truth. So tonight, Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the amendment vowing that every Member of this House, every year until it is done. We will rise until justice is done for the Armenian people and history is written as history occurred.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the AIDS Walk organized by Jessica Pomerantz of Cresskill High School on Sunday, June 2. The scourge of AIDS has left few homes and families unscathed by its wrath. The most recent figures available estimate that nearly one-half of a million people have been stricken with AIDS, and it is now the leading cause of death among young to middle-aged Americans. The most frightening aspect of the disease is its failure to discriminate among its victims. From heterosexuals, to homosexuals, to African-Americans, to Latinos, all identifiable groups have found themselves its targets. My greatest concern, however, is the toll that has been taken on the female population. AIDS is now the fourth most common cause of death among American women. In the State of New Jersey, the situation has been particularly grim. Sadly, New Jersey has one of the highest rates of heterosexual transmission in the Nation. Of these cases, an overwhelming majority are women, and the numbers will only increase. Women account for more than one-third of the total number of HIV- positive adults in New Jersey. More significantly, over one-quarter of New Jersey's full-blown AIDS patients are women--the highest rate in the country. Nationwide, the condition surrounding minorities has been equally bleak. Rates of African-Americans and Latinos with AIDS, for example, continue to increase steadily. New Jersey mirrors this national picture. Statistics demonstrate that minority women in the State have been particularly hard hit. Together, African-American and Latino women accounted for more than three-quarters of all female AIDS cases in New Jersey last year. Educating the public about these problems, as well as preventive measures, will do a great deal to begin curbing the spread of AIDS. Some progress has been made already as rates of transmission through injection drug use have decreased. However, a great deal of work remains to be done. For this reason, Jessica and Bruce Pomerantz are to be congratulated for their efforts on behalf of the AIDS Walk to bring these issues to the forefront of our national consciousness. In order to effect real change in this country, it is essential that more concerned citizens like Jessica and Bruce act to heighten our awareness of the startling facts. The victimization of women and minorities should not be allowed to continue any more.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn, in the strongest possible terms, a proposed shopping mall to be located just outside the Auschwitz death camp in Poland. The Auschwitz death camp has left a scar in our minds and hearts that can never be removed. It is a reminder of the depths of evil human kind is capable of. And it serves as a warning that we must never let it happen again. For anyone to commercialize Auschwitz or develop its immediate surroundings would be an affront to all of us, and to the memories of the millions of victims of the Holocaust. Approximately 1.5 million people were killed at Auschwitz during World War II. The 50,000 people who visit the camp sites every year are there to understand the monstrous inhumanity that took place. To exploit the camps for economic gain is an insult to everyone who has worked to ensure the Holocaust's unique place in the world's history and culture. The Polish Government recently announced that it would temporarily halt further development of the shopping center outside the Auschwitz death camp and set up a special government commission to examine the legality of the planned supermarket. The First Secretary also noted that Poland's President Aleksander Kwasniewski ``strongly criticized the proposed construction.'' The final decision on whether to proceed with the shopping center lies with the town council of Oswiecim- Brzezinka. There must be no equivocation on termination of this shopping center. The construction must stop permanently. A commercial endeavor so close to Auschwitz would be offensive not just to the memories of those who were murdered there but to the sense that Auschwitz stands as one of the most prominent symbols of the lesson of the Holocaust, ``Never Again.''

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Greek Independence Day, which falls on March 25, 1996. I have had the opportunity to visit Greece on several occasions, and I treasure the time I was able to spend in this great nation. Not only has Greece been a loyal ally and NATO member, but Greek-Americans have also made great efforts to enrich the United States. In celebrating Greek independence, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect upon efforts that have been made in the 104th Congress. We have spoken out for and voted for the Porter amendment which cut aid to Turkey from $42 million to $21 million. This gesture shows that the United States will no longer tolerate countries who block U.S. humanitarian assistance and who consistently violate human rights standards. I am also pleased that Congress has finally made an effort to end the Cypriot struggle for freedom from Turkish dominance. As one of the original cosponsors of the Cyprus Demilitarization Act, I am proud that the United States has finally called for the withdrawal of all foreign troops from Cyprus. This measure shows that we are committed to resolving this 20-year-old dispute based on the relevant U.N. resolutions. When I learned about the approved sale of U.S. Army Tactical Missile Systems to Turkey, there was a need to organize and fight this transaction. I am proud of the initiative I took by introducing H. Con. Res. 124 which expresses Congress' disapproval of the proposed sale due to Turkey's human rights record. I have asked the Speaker to attach this bill to the final budget proposal. The Greek-American community has a lot to celebrate on March 25-- these efforts have been monumental. The newly formed Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues, of which I am a founding member, will help us continue our efforts on these issues. I am proud to have been an instrumental part of this progress. I look forward to continued bipartisan support. I would like to express my sincere congratulations to Greek-Americans and the people of Greece on this day of independence.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who have worked so hard to bring this important and timely resolution so quickly to the floor of the House of Representatives. The recent missile maneuvers, including the use of live-fire ammunition, by the People's Republic of China off the coast of Taiwan has called for an immediate and unequivocal American response. This resolution, developed with strong bipartisan support and input, represent that response. It is said that in history, great conflicts begin more often from miscalculation than purposeful design. Even in our own time, it is said that the Korean war may have begun by the unfortunate statement of Mr. Avenuees that the defense perimeter of the United States began in the Sea of Japan, and not the 38th parallel. A few years ago the United States Ambassador to Iraq suggested to Saddam Hussein that in a dispute between Kuwait and Iraq, the United States would regard the matter as an internal problem in the Arab world. Today in the straits of Taiwan a foundation may be being laid for a similar misunderstanding. That is why this resolution is so important. This strong declaration of congressional policy, coupled with the recent decision by President Clinton to send naval wargroups into the region of the Taiwan Straits will send a clear message about our policy to the Chinese. House Concurrent Resolution 148 condemns the recent military exercises off the coast of Taiwan and reiterates that the future relationship of Taiwan and the mainland must be decided by peaceful means. Finally it states that the United States, in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and the constitutional process of the United States, should assist in the defense of Taiwan in the event of invasion, missile attack, or blockade by the People's Republic of China. This resolution is in accordance with American policy as laid out in the Taiwan Relations Act and is supportive of actions already taken by the Clinton administration. As one of the principal authors of this resolution, I would again like to thank all my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who made this resolution possible.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my colleague, the gentleman from Indiana, Chairman Burton, for yielding me time on what should be the proudest day of his congressional career. The gentleman has done great service to the United States and to the people of Cuba by bringing this legislation forward, and he has my congratulations. I never thought, however, Mr. Speaker, that I would hear a day when Members of Congress would come to the floor while the bodies of four Americans are still lost in the Straits of Florida, having been murdered by Fidel Castro, talking about consideration for Canadian investors, worrying about European corporations while there are still hundreds of American corporations whose property was stolen from them and is being resold; consideration for the Canadian investors, worrying about the Spanish companies, extraterritoriality. People are going to American courts under this bill, I would say to the gentleman from California [Mr. Campbell], because the Cuban courts are unavailable. If they could get their grievances redressed in Cuban courts for the last 30 years, they would have gone there. They would have gone there. They cannot. So we are opening ours up. Consideration for our European allies? If this were an island in the Mediterranean, 35 years later, hundreds of people in jail, planes being shot down off our coast, do my colleagues think we would be silent? As allies, we would have been there demanding elections and freedom and taking a stand. Now we are asked to have consideration for our European allies. If America stands alone for freedom in Cuba, for the rights of our own citizens against the jails and the torture, then America has never been in better company. This legislation is the final in a series of acts in uniting this Congress on a bipartisan basis and making clear to the people of Cuba there is no reconciliation with Fidel Castro, there is no compromise, it is time to bring the dictatorship to a close, and we do this as we did against South Africa with apartheid, as we do today against Libya and Iraq, by using our economic leverage. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be a cosponsor of this bill. I congratulate by bipartisan colleagues and the President of the United States for offering his signature, and to the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Burton], on this good day.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, when the 104th Congress began, it was our mandate, it was alleged, to enhance the role of State government, to reduce the role of Federal regulations, to ease the burdens on industry. And now here we are, a year later, creating a new Federal commission to review an industry that has always been the province of the State government, an industry about which the Federal Government has never been involved and has no expertise. And, to compound the problem, this new Commission will all be named by elements of the Federal Government. No involvement by the attorneys general, who have enforced the laws for 200 years, no role by the State Governors, who have had this responsibility, and no role by tribal leaders, who now have the fastest growing element of this industry. We have managed to ask a recommendation uniquely from the one element of government in the entire country with no expertise, no knowledge, and no involvement. Mr. Speaker, I see the realities that the Commission may carry the day. Let me at least suggest this: The other body has a chance to improve it, get the Governors involved, get the industry involved, get the tribal leaders involved, to make it a better report. While I may still believe that it is the role of the Federal Government that is not appropriate and I oppose the commission, let us at least for the record make this clear: The gentleman from Virginia [Mr. Wolf] in his statement earlier made clear, this Commission does not have a mandate for new Federal taxes. It is my belief it does not have a role in new Federal regulations. I have heard no Member come to this floor talking about new Federal taxes on this industry. Let the record at least be clear on this: this is the most taxed, most regulated, most inspected industry in the United States today. In New Jersey alone we have 1,000 inspectors for 12 casinos. The petroleum industry, the chemical industry, the drug industry, none of them have that level of involvement. If you own any part of any company involved in casino gaming in New Jersey, you, your family, your finances, your holdings, are inspected. I hope, Mr. Speaker, in the other body we can make this a commission that really involves the industry and our States in what is a State industry.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Chairman, there is no one in this Chamber who likes to have to maintain Government programs that restrict supply or prices. That is not how we would like the world to be. But it is time to recognize that the United States is not writing all the rules. We can do away with this program and we can also do away with the thousands of jobs that are maintained because of it. And we can open up the floodgates and instead of those jobs by Americans producing this sugar, it will come from around the world. We have the most efficient sugar industry in the world, but we cannot legislate in this Chamber French subsidies or Dominican subsidies or Philippine subsidies. We simply have the right for unilateral surrender of our own industry. Finally, my colleagues, while I represent no sugar industry, I do come to this House with the voice of American foreign policy and I tell my colleagues this: End this program and start the Unite States being the world's largest importer of sugar. We will drive up the world price, and it will got to a lot of other countries. We will lose the jobs and the money and Fidel Castro's Cuba will reap the benefits by rising in price.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, it is said that in history, great conflicts begin more often from miscalculation than by purposeful design. Even in our own time, it is said that the Korean war may have begun by the unfortunate statement of Mr. Avenuees that the defense perimeter of the United States began in the Sea of Japan, and not the 38th parallel. A few years ago the United States Ambassador to Iraq suggested to Saddam Hussein that in a dispute between Kuwait and Iraq, the United States would regard the matter as an internal problem in the Arab world. Today in the straits of Taiwan a foundation may be being laid for a similar misunderstanding. I take the floor today, Mr. Speaker, as one Member of this institution, in the hope that the leaders of our country, our great allies in the People's Republic of China, come to some mutual understanding of events that are taking shape even as we speak between Taiwan and the People's Republic of China. Only weeks ago the Peoples Republic fired missiles into the airspace and the shipping lanes around Taiwan. It is now openly being discussed what further actions, including military measures, might be taken. The leaders in Beijing are displeased with comments or activities of President Li after the Taiwanese elections. It is the policy of the United States Government to have formal diplomatic relations with the People's Republic and to recognize it as the sole legitimate Government of China, but the Taiwan Relations Act is infinitely more complex. It also permits, and indeed, in my judgment, provides a responsibility for the United States Government to continually reassess our role and obligations if the security situation of Taiwan were to deteriorate. I recognize that the relationship between Beijing and Washington is one of the cornerstones of world peace. It is one of this Nation's most important economic, cultural, and security relationships. I want it to be strong and I want it to be sound. But I also recognize, and history bears witness, the United States keeps its obligations, recognizes its relationships, and meets the needs of its friends. I trust and I hope that Beijing in the coming months will act responsibly, retain the commitment that any dispute it might have with the people on Taiwan and the question of the larger China is resolved peacefully, responsibly, and diplomatically. But simply because Members of this institution and the larger U.S. Government are committed to good relations with Beijing, simply because we want good political relationships, increased investment and trade, simply because of the progress of all these years, they should not put aside that this is still a nation that keeps its obligations, defends the weak against the strong, and holds democratic governments with pluralistic governments in a singular and special category. This is, after all, not the Taiwan of 20 years ago. There is a free press, a pluralist democracy, and now, a popularly elected President. That does not negate aspects of, or in its totality, the Taiwan Relations Act. It is simply an attempt to make an effort on my own part to communicate with the leaders in Beijing to let them know that the firing of the missiles was not only wrong, but threatening military action is irresponsible. However they may calculate it, whatever their advisers may say, at the end of the day, in spite of all the investment and all the hopes for good relations with China, the world will not watch a military incursion, a renewal of hostilities, or even irresponsible acts that threaten the peace. So I hope each in our private ways, parties to this potential dispute, will again renew their commitment to peace and ensure that our actions remain responsible, but that all parties at the end of the day recognize that the United States will not witness the forceful end of the Government of Taiwan.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I am inserting for the Record an opinion piece I wrote concerning the need to take action to preserve the American middle class: Preserving America's Middle Class (By Congressman Robert Torricelli) Some 50 years ago president Harry Truman asked his assembled economic advisors for their interpretation of his economic policies. The economy was faltering, and he needed answers. They told him on the one hand what was right, and on the other hand what was wrong. Harry Truman said that what he needed was more one-handed economists. The massive layoffs at AT&T reminded us again this week that indeed, the American economy is in two very different and often contradictory hands. We are, on the one hand, an extraordinary innovative people. We have the world's most productive workers. Our stock market is booming. We have captured the technological edge in vital and lucrative fields. We are the world's largest exporter. In many ways, the United States is the marvel of the international economy. But there is another side to our rapidly changing economy. In the last decade there has been a loss of 20 million jobs due to corporate downsizing. One half of all Fortune 500 companies have seen dramatic changes in their employment. In the 1980s, 50 percent of those who lost their jobs and found new employment, did so at reduced wages. Twenty percent found themselves out of the workforce permanently. And a million of these newly unemployed found themselves without health care benefits or pensions. A slow motion downsizing is taking place in many corporations across America which never makes the headlines. Middle class America hangs by a very thin and precious thread. Few of our families are more than a serious illness, a technological breakthrough, or a corporate downsizing away from losing a standard of life that took generations to earn. We are becoming a nation of smaller, leaner, and much more competitive corporations. The layoffs at AT&T are the most dramatic expression of a growing phenomenon of corporate restructuring. But unlike General Motors or I.B.M. who were in serious financial crisis, AT&T is strong and profitable. Yet, AT&T has made a prospective decision about a problem it might or might not face in future years. The impact in New Jersey of the loss of 7,000 jobs will be exacerbated by the loss of work for hundreds of contractors in the community that depend on the health of the company. These layoffs will impact families, communities, and state and local governments. The question is not whether we can adapt to the changing economy, but whether we can do so fairly, while protecting our families, and remaining consistent with our sense of community. To do so, we must re-examine our responsibilities as corporate citizens, individuals, and government. Every corporation has the right and the responsibility to control costs, maximize returns to its investors, to survive and to prosper. But, corporate responsibility was never to its sources of capital alone, but also to its employees, its suppliers, and to its community. Today's laid off workers are having a hard time understanding why their companies allow their chief executive to collect 200 times what their average employee makes per year. And community leaders are having a hard time understanding why they provided lucrative tax breaks to corporations to move into their areas, only to see their neighbors thrown out of work with little justification. There had always been a sense of balance among these interests. Today's CEOs, however, have lost sight of that importance balance, and their responsibility to maintain it. In order to succeed in this new economy, corporations must correct the dangerous imbalance between the interests of financial capital and human capital. For individual workers, it is increasingly unlikely that the corporation they join early in life will be the same one they end their careers with. The age of freelance workers is upon us. People must now identify less with a corporation and more with their skills. It means constant re-eduction, flexibility, and mobility. It means greater self-reliance. And we in the government have a responsibility to adapt our tax incentives and educational culture in order to succeed in the 21st century. That means making innovative changes to our tax code and making education and training programs more accessible. Here's what government can do: Establish Individual Training Accounts, where employees in good times can save money tax free so they have the resources available to receive retraining and continuing education to keep up with technological advances. Maintaining competitive skills is as important to individuals now as it is to corporations. Give preferential corporate tax treatment for worker training. Ninety percent of all training of employees in America today is being done by only one percent of our corporations. We need to create incentives to make training American workers a rational business decision again. Change the way we asses corporate taxes. Our current tax code treats equally: excessive executive bonuses; excessive compensation; and expenses like compensation for workers and retraining of employees. However, these expenses are not of equal value to society, they are not of equal value to the future of this country, and they should not be treated equally by our tax code. Reduce capital gains taxes, to ensure that the middle class can invest and save, to finally get some security by accumulated savings. Only family savings will afford the American workforce the financial security it needs to change jobs. Increase the availability of federally-backed student loans, and broaden them to apply to retraining, vocational, and continuing education programs. Universities must become more open to all generations who will need re-education, and their classes must become more relevant to the local economy. Ensure that workers' pensions and health care plans are portable. Losing a job must not mean losing the security of a pension and health care coverage. Workers should be able to carry their pensions to other companies throughout their careers. We are all in this new economy together. These are neither good times nor bad times. They are different times. And if we are like all Americans that came before us, we can make them work for our families, our community, and our country. Together we must develop good ideas and make sound decisions that help our people deal with rapid economic change. We must not allow the modernization of America to become the downsizing of America.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to give special recognition to the remarks of the Honorable Joseph Reed, Under Secretary General of the United Nations, presented on behalf of Dr. Boutos-Ghali, the Secretary General of the United Nations, at the Second World Parliamentarians' Conference in Gifu, Japan, in September. I am sure we all agree that the United Nations' admirable goal of striving to promote and support democratization throughout the world deserves our wholehearted support. Ambassador Reed's contributions to the work of the United Nations continue to serve as an inspiration. Ambassador Reed has held several senior-level positions in the United Nations, in addition to serving as the Chief of Protocol from 1989 to 1991 and United States Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco from 1981 to 1985. I submit Ambassador Reed's speech in Japan for my colleagues to review. Statement by Ambassador Joseph Verner Reed at the Second World Parliamentarians' Conference for the Support of the United Nations Excellencies, Ladies and Gentleman, I feel privileged to be here today on behalf of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Dr. Boutros Boutros-Ghali, who sends best wishes and greetings. The Secretary-General and all of us at the United Nations are grateful for the valuable support you have given us, in good times and in bad times. The Secretary-General has asked me to share the following with you. When the first Parliamentarians' Conference for the support of the United Nations was held in January 1992 in Tokyo, the United Nations was entering a new phase. Gone were the bipolar tensions of the cold war. In their place came renewed commitment to the United Nations--to the great common goal of a peaceful and cooperative international system. It soon became clear, however, that more than renewed commitment would be required. A massive transformation would be needed to enable the organization to fulfill the goals of the charter in a dramatically different world environment. Some three years later, the process of transition continues. Significant and substantial progress has been made. But there is a need for further, substantial reform. The fiftieth anniversary year of the organization offers us an opportunity to complete this process, and bring this period of transition to a successful close. It is in this context that you have gathered here in the Gifu for the Second World Parliamentarians' Conference for the Support of the United Nations. You have discussed and reached new consensus on the role of the United Nations in many key areas: disarmament and peace; sustainable development and the environment; the United Nations and Asia and the Pacific; and the involvement of citizens and non-governmental organizations. Today, the Secretary-General has asked me to take these moments with you to discuss another area of United Nations work: promoting and supporting democratization. The end of the cold war confrontation and the emergence of globalization continue to drive a wave of democratization. Since 1989 the United Nations has received requests for electoral assistance from more than sixty member states. These requests, from nearly one-third of the organization's membership, testify to this new impulse toward democratization. The United Nations today is in the forefront of promoting and supporting democratization around the world. The emphasis is on democratization as a process, and democracy as an objective. Individual societies decide if and when to begin the process of democratization--to move toward a more participatory system of political governance. And throughout democratization, each society decides the nature of the process and its pace. Like the process of democratization itself, democracy can take many shapes and forms. It can be assimilated by any culture. The benefits brought by democracy make it a compelling objective for those societies on the path of democratization. Democracy supports stability within societies by mediating between competing points of view. It fosters respect between states, reducing the chances of war. It creates responsive government that respects human rights and legal obligations. And it favours the creativity and cooperation that permit social and economic progress. The United Nations is adapting to the new and increasing demands of member states for support in democratization. On 7 December 1994, in its Resolution 49/30, the General Assembly requested the Secretary-General to study ways and mechanisms in which the United Nations system could support the efforts of governments to promote and consolidate new or restored democracies. The Secretary-General was asked to submit a comprehensive report thereon to the assembly at its fiftieth session. The Secretary General is now preparing the report. Outlines for a comprehensive approach are emerging. Such an approach will enable the United Nations to offer support for democratization that begins at the earliest possible stage. It could then continue on through assistance in democratic elections, and in the building of institutions which support democratization. For democratization to take root within a society, it must have indigenous support. The United Nations assists member states in building such support by helping to promote a culture of democracy. This can mean assistance to political parties and movements; support for a free and independent media; or assistance in civic education. Such efforts, combined with electoral assistance, can help member states firmly on the road to democratization. In this regard, recent United Nations achievements in Cambodia, El Salvador and Mozambique deserve wider recognition and attention. Electoral assistance to member states is a new phenomenon. The Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs now serves as focal point for electoral assistance requests, with the help of the newly-created electoral assistance division. Beyond holding free and fair elections is the evident need for societies to prepare the institutional ground in which democratization can take root. The United Nations offers a wide variety of assistance in this area, drawing substantially upon its work in development and human rights. The United Nations today is helping member states to create democratic structures of Government--or to strengthen existing ones. It is helping to enhance the rule of law. To improve accountability and transparency. To build national capacity. And to reform the civil service. This comprehensive approach, now taking shape, reflects the changing nature of requests by member states for support in democratization. It also underscores the need for other actors to contribute. Regional organizations, non- governmental organizations, citizens, the private sector, the academic community, parliamentarians such as yourselves--all have an essential and complementary role to play. Many of you in this audience, through such organizations as the Interparliamentary Union, or Parliamentarians for Global Action, already provide international support for democratization processes. You help promote a culture of democracy and human rights. You provide electoral assistance. You facilitate the creation and operation of representative institutions. You are valued partners of the United Nations in the effort to promote and support democratization. We are convinced that the efforts of states to democratize will find greater stability and an increased likelihood of success when democratization extends to the international arena. Globalization confronts governments everywhere with new pressures. Some are economic, political and military pressures from above. Others are pressures exerted from below by local, ethnic or grass-roots organizations. These pressures are often mutually reinforcing. Citizens suffering the local effects of problems transnational in scope--such as drug trafficking or environmental degradation--are demanding solutions from their national governments. To meet these demands, governments must increasingly seek solutions through cooperative arrangements or participation in international organizations. The new pressures on governments are thus paving the way for an unprecedented democratization of international relations. This process must be recognized, supported and advanced. The institutions and norms of democracy, at the international level, can provide governments with the means to manage global pressures. They can help governments to provide an enabling environment for their citizens. For the United Nations, democratization of the international system has become a new priority. Already, the reform of the organization, including the decentralization of decision-making, has taken place. This reform needs to be met by reform in the intergovernmental organs of the United Nations. And, in the relationships between those organs and the other elements of the U.N. system. Progress in this area has been slow. But these are difficult and complicated issues. The Secretary- General is determined that they should receive their full share of debate. There are many other ways in which the United Nations can promote the democratization of the international system. By supporting a free, independent and responsible media, worldwide, the United Nations helps to preserve the principal venue for dialogue and debate within and among nations. International law is a powerful tool for the democratization of the international system. It promotes mutual respect among nations and peoples. It provides an analytical framework for approaching problems of mutual concern. It offers a powerful basis for multilateral action. The United Nations provides a forum and mechanism for the advancement of international law. Global conferences, convened by the United Nations, create relevant constituencies. They bring together all the state and non-state actors concerned. This not only contributes to the legitimacy and effectiveness of the programmes of action produced. It strengthens participation in decision-making on world affairs. It reinforces democratic principles at the international level. The efforts of the United Nations to improve cooperation with actors outside the United Nations system have a similar effect. I refer here again to regional organizations, non- governmental agencies, citizens, the private sector, the academic community and parliamentarians. In all areas of work--for peace, development or democratization--cooperation with these actors increases efficiency and effectiveness. And, it strengthens democratic principles and practices. During this time of transition, improving cooperation with parliamentarians has taken on an even greater urgency. Making the transition to a new international era is no simple task. The new challenges are complex, difficult, and at times, dangerous. Around the world, United Nations personnel are asked to confront unprecedented situations--all too often without sufficient resources or mandates. The United Nations needs its member states and their peoples to recognize the complexity of today's challenges. In the task of communication, you, as parliamentarians, can play an indispensable role. You are an essential link between the United Nations and international public opinion. You are uniquely placed to help build recognition, understanding and support for the United Nations and its work. Communication must flow both ways. If the new international system is to be legitimate, responsive and effective, all must take part in its creation. As direct representatives of the wills and aspirations of your constituents, you can carry their voices to the international arena. You can help ensure their participation. As such, you, parliamentarians, are also a motive force for the democratization of the international system. And you can bring to bear on world affairs your commitment to dialogue, discussion and agreement--to democratic principles and cooperation. Today, at the conference, you are fulfilling all of these important roles. You are helping to build support for the United Nations. You are bringing the views of your constituents to the international arena. You are giving strength to democratic principles in the practice of world affairs. On behalf of the United Nations, the Secretary-General has asked me to express our deep appreciation to the foundation for the support of the United Nations, to the Gifu City government, and to the Gifu Prefecture. Government for sponsoring this important event. This sponsorship testifies to the longstanding commitment of the people of Japan--as individual citizens, through their local and national governments, and through regional organizations--to support the United Nations and its ideals, and to participate in its work. To all of you parliamentarians, assembled in this great and beautiful city of Gifu, the Secretary-General extends his sincere appreciation for your efforts. And we look forward to your continued participation as we strive to construct a workable international system for today, and for tomorrow. Ladies and gentlemen, in conclusion, allow me a few words on an event which is close to my heart and, I am sure, close to your heart: the golden jubilee of our world organization. As we prepare for the fiftieth anniversary of the United Nations, let us recall the opening words of the charter: ``We the peoples of the United Nations . . .''. We all of us--are the United Nations. The United Nations is now and increasingly will be, what we choose to make of it. Knowledge about the United Nations is thus ever more important for people everywhere. With the active commitment of people, the United Nations and continue to play its indispensable role for peace and security, social and economic progress, and global human development. Let us take up the challenge of the next fifty years. It is in our power to use the United Nations as a force for fundamental transformation to a world of peace and enduring prosperity. Let this be the starting point for taking your United Nations on the road to the future. I thank you for your attention.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, President Clinton once wrote: . . . the best strategy to ensure and build a lasting peace is to support the advance of democracy elsewhere. I concur with this statement, and I add that in order to establish security within our own borders, we must also ensure democracy and security within the borders of the countries close to the United States. Guatemala is one of those countries. Mr. Speaker, the second round of elections in Guatemala are to be held on January 7, 1996. The people of Guatemala are praying for a legitimate, democratic election. One that will guarantee substantial changes from the past governments and give them hope for true democracy in their own country. If this does not come to pass, then more Guatemalans will come illegally into the United States. At this time, just in Florida alone, there are more than 50,000 Guatemalan immigrants who have come in hopes of finding the American dream of true democracy and justice, something they have been denied for years in their own country. The corruption in Guatemala must stop, and the United States is the only country that has the power to terminate such activity. Both the President and Congress should make it a priority to see that honest, fraudulent-free elections are held there. As with the elections in Haiti and Nicaragua, the United States should send a cadre of officials to Guatemala to ensure that the voters will not be coerced in any way. The resources that we are currently utilizing to maintain illegals within our country would be better spent tending to the elimination of such corruption, which drives emigres to our soil. Additionally, we should always consider the quality of life for U.S. citizens who reside in these strained countries. Mr. Speaker, we seek the security of our Nation and we hold dear our own ideals, but too often we disregard the ideals of others living in nations less fortunate, where corruption runs rampant. By taking precautions now, we can lighten the burdens we will have to carry later. I therefore urge President Clinton to order the State Department to monitor the upcoming election in Guatemala, so as to ensure that they are fair and democratic.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I bring to the attention of my colleagues recent press reports about India's nuclear weapons capability. A December 15 story in the New York Times indicates that based on satellite surveillance, United States experts suspect India is preparing for a nuclear test, its first since 1974. The Indian Government says the intelligence is being misinterpreted and that it has no plans to conduct another nuclear test. Mr. Speaker, nuclear developments on the South Asian subcontinent should not be taken lightly. Any move by the Government of India to conduct a nuclear test will inevitably escalate the danger of proliferation in a region fraught with tensions and conflicts and threaten the negotiations in Geneva on the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. Mr. Speaker, the United States continues to pursue efforts to bring both Pakistan and India back from the nuclear brink. it is a policy that should not and cannot be threatened by India. Three times since 1947 India and Pakistan have gone to war. Tensions still simmer over the disputed territory of Kashmir. The United States has made its policy goals for South Asia clear. We oppose the deployment of missiles, nuclear weapons testing, and production of fissile materials. We can only attain these goals if India cooperates with these guidelines. If India proceeds with nuclear testing, it will be repudiating years of efforts to end nuclear proliferation and could increase tensions with Pakistan. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to read the New York Times story and the December 20 editorial in the Washington Post on this very significant development.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, when securities litigation reform legislation came to this House earlier this year, I voted for it. The Clinton administration supported it. Democrats and Republicans in this body overwhelmingly gave their assent. This is not that bill. Mr. Speaker, this is a good example of what happens when this institution does not function according to its own rules and procedures. The bill the President vetoed is not the result of a conference committee. The conference committee did not meet. It is not the result of a bipartisan effort. Democrats were never consulted. We started with Democrats, Republicans, both bodies of the Congress, and the administration toward a common language, largely with common language, with a good purpose, and because we could not work together in good faith, we came up with a product that forced the President to issue a veto and many of us to oppose the legislation. Mr. Speaker, that is why 15 attorneys general have stated their concerns, and leaders of the business community themselves. Look how far we went wrong, and be careful that you want to be identified with this legislation if you do not vote to sustain the veto. The conference report drops language exempting from the safe-harbor provisions ``statements knowingly made with the purpose and actual intent of misleading investors.'' That was dropped. Mr. Speaker, I know we all want to do right by the business community. How about your retirees? Small business people? Pension fund managers? Ultimately, the strength of this economy rests on the confidence of our people to invest. This is not a small Latin American nation where a few large families carry the raising of capital. Our people must feel confident. We cannot pass this bill and have people believe that they can go and make an investment and have recourse. The President will sign a bill with modest changes. It is the bill many of you voted for originally. Mr. Speaker, I urge the Members of this body, sustain this veto. Let us get a bill worth voting for.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I address my colleagues today to extend my heartfelt congratulations and warmest wishes to Charles ``Ken'' Zisa. On December 18, 1995, Ken will be inaugurated as chief of police of the city of Hackensack, NJ. For many years, the name ``Ken Zisa'' has been synonymous with a tradition of community service, dedication, and love of the city of Hackensack. Chief Zisa has dedicated his professional life to his career in law enforcement. He joined the force in 1975, was promoted to sergeant in 1983, lieutenant in 1989, and captain in 1993. Chief Zisa is a man of the utmost integrity who cares about his neighbors, his community, and his country. He is a man of vision who will continue to make the city of Hackensack proud of their police department. Ken has been a member of HAPADA, the Bergen County Youth Services Commission, PBA Local #9, Knights of Columbus Trinity Council 747, B.P.O.E. Lodge 658, and Hackensack UNICO. Ken and his wife, Mary, reside in Hackensack and have two children, Anthony and Kristen, who attend the Hackensack public schools. Mr. Speaker, I extend my best wishes to Chief Charles K. Zisa on this most special occasion.

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I yield the balance of our time to the gentleman from Maryland [Mr. Hoyer], the gentleman who has served as the conscience of this Congress on the carnage in Bosnia.

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Olver]. (Mr. OLVER asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Michigan, [Mr. Levin]. (Mr. LEVIN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. TORRICELLI

Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. Speaker, in a few moments when this debate ends, the lights are dimmed across the country, thousands of American families are still going to sit in fear for those they love who are in our Armed Forces. They need to know that we are a proud and a very grateful Nation. They also need to understand the historic nature of this mission. When the 20th century concludes, Mr. Speaker, we will close the chapter on nearly 300 wars. Despite all of our science and our culture and the advances of our times, this has been the most deadly period of human history. Our troops go to Bosnia to preserve the peace, to end the genocide, but also because they are the best hope that the future is going to be different from the past. In the Persian Gulf we proved that the world could fight together for justice. In Bosnia we proved that we can stand together to preserve the peace. Mr. Speaker, we all wish that it could be different. But the lessons of European wars still burn in our memory. And there have been too many nights in too many churches and too many synagogues where we prayed that never again would the world experience genocide. Now we are left with the question, did all of that have meaning? Those memories stay with us for a reason. Yet my colleagues argue that it is not fair, it is not right that America should bear the burden. Mr. Speaker, it has never been fair. It was not fair in Flanders. It was not fair in Okinawa or Normandy. Mr. Speaker, we are not everybody else. We are Americans. We have never accepted history. We have changed it. Others might accept 250,000 people dying in their homelands. Other people might see genocide and slaughter and learn to look away. We are different. That is a difference that I am grateful for every day. The determination of those who sat in this Chamber before us, colleagues who were here before us, led to a triumph of democracy in the world in the 20th century. My colleagues, if we have the same determination, if we have the same strength, we can lead to the triumph of peace in the 21st century. That judgment, Mr. Speaker, holds in the balance. Mark Twain once said that in a world where physical courage is so common, it is tragic that moral courage should be so rare. Our troops have the physical courage to answer the call of our Nation. In the Hamilton resolution we determine whether we have the moral courage to lead, whether, indeed, Mr. Speaker, we are equal to those who answer the call of our country tonight. I urge support of the resolution.