Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, the Council of Khalistan will be holding its annual convention in Detroit next month. It will be held from October 7 through October 9. This is a very appropriate date because Khalistan declared its independence from India on October 7, 1987 and the Council of Khalistan was formed at that time to lead the struggle to liberate Khalistan, a struggle that continues to this day, 18 years later. It is outrageous that this struggle has had to go on so long, but the Council of Khalistan has been tireless in keeping it going and keeping the flame of freedom for the Sikh nation burning. I salute them on their convention and I wish them success both with their convention and with their efforts to bring freedom to the Sikh people. It is time for India to get out of Khalistan and allow the people there to live in freedom. Until then, Mr. Speaker, we should stop our aid and trade with India and demand self-determination for the people of Khalistan, for the Kashmiris, as India promised in 1948, for the people of Nagaland, and for all the people and nations of South Asia. That is the only way to bring peace and stability to that troubled region.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express our Nation's gratitude for the contribution made by the people and government of Uganda to the relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Minister of Foreign Affairs Sam Kutesa was in Washington recently when he announced that his country was donating $200,000 to the Bush- Clinton Katrina Fund. Expressing his government's sympathies toward the people affected by Hurricane Katrina, Minister Kutesa said: ``We know that, under the guidance of the two former presidents, money collected by the Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund will go where it is needed most and where it can be used best.'' While a contribution of $200,000 may seem small in comparison to the vastness of the hurricane's destruction, please keep in mind that Uganda is a small country that has also suffered its share of devastation. Americans must remember the terror and oppression of the Idi Amin regime, which came to an end in 1979 but its effects are still being felt. The ruthless dictator Idi Amin deliberately destroyed Uganda's economy and infrastructure and displaced hundreds of thousands of people from their homes and businesses. In 1986, after a long civil war, President Yoweri Museveni came into office with promises to stabilize the country, facilitate economic growth, and restore dignity and humanity to the political process. In the years since, he has largely lived up to those promises, although-- like any country trying to emerge from decades of tyrannical government--Uganda still has problems that need to be addressed. Uganda's contribution to the recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina should be seen in the context of the bonds of friendship between our two countries. Uganda is a key regional ally in the global war on terror, and through the efforts of President Museveni and his government, East Africa is a more stable place today than it was twenty years ago. Indeed, Uganda has faced its own, home-grown terrorism, in the form of the brutal Lord's Resistance Army, which has raped and pillaged the northern part of Uganda and terrorized the population there. Led by religious zealot Joseph Kony, the Lord's Resistance Army kidnaps children and forces them to be soldiers in a pointless war against their own families and neighbors. There is a very good reason that the Lord's Resistance Army has consistently been listed as a major terrorist organization by the State Department's annual publication, Patterns of Global Terrorism. Uganda also faces a terrorist insurgency by the smaller, but no less deadly, Allied Democratic Forces. The ADF, as it is known, extends its tentacles beyond Uganda: several of its members were captured in Afghanistan fighting for the Taliban and al-Qaeda, and they are now interned by the U.S. Government at Guantanamo Bay. With all this in mind, our gratitude toward Uganda and its people, and particularly toward President Museveni, should be clear and strong. Mr. Speaker, it recently became my pleasure to become the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Uganda. I encourage all Members of this body to consider joining the caucus so that they can study more closely the U.S.-Ugandan bilateral relationship and learn more about how Uganda and the United States can work together on matters of mutual concern. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I ask that an article entitled ``Uganda Is Latest African Donor of Relief to Hurricane Katrina,'' by Washington File staff writer Jim Fisher-Thompson, be entered into the Record. This article treats in more detail some of the issues I have just described. [From the Washington File] Uganda Is Latest African Donor of Relief to Hurricane Katrina--Foreign Minister Kutesa Describes $200,000 Donation (By Jim Fisher-Thompson) Washington.--Uganda has joined other African nations responding to devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina with a donation of $200,000 for relief and rebuilding efforts in New Orleans and communities along the Gulf of Mexico coast. Visiting Ugandan Foreign Minister Sam Kutesa told the Washington File September 7 that the government of President Yoweri Museveni and the people of Uganda ``feel with you and sympathize with you at this time of sorrow. We know you have lost dear ones, as well as considerable property. And we want Americans to know we are thinking of them and are standing shoulder to shoulder with them.'' The official made a point of mentioning the donation was not just a pledge but that the money would be transferred immediately to the Bush-Clinton Katrina fund. Hurricane Katrina struck the U.S. Gulf Coast August 29. The storm and subsequent flooding have devastated parts of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama and left thousands homeless. A statement released by the Ugandan Embassy September 8 announcing the donation quoted Museveni as saying, ``The United States has been generous in responding to natural and humanitarian disasters all over the world, including in Africa. Uganda has more than once been the beneficiary of this generosity and justice requires us to aid the people in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama who have lost their homes and loved ones.'' President Bush named his father, a former president, and former President Bill Clinton to head up fund-raising efforts for reconstruction that may cost more than $150 billion. The hope is they can duplicate their very successful fund-raising efforts for victims of the devastating tsunami that struck South Asia in December 2004. Kutesa said, ``We know that under the guidance of the two former presidents money will go where it is needed most and where it can be used best.'' Uganda joins other African nations contributing to Katrina relief including: Djibouti, $50,000; Gabon, $500,000; and Kenya, $100,000. Noting the symbolic value of the Uganda donation matched against the immense sums needed for reconstruction, Kutesa told the Washington File, ``America has been very generous in helping Uganda fight HIV/AIDS and developing its economy. So it is only right that we try to help as much as we can. We wish we could do more but we are limited.'' Kutesa said, ``We know what human tragedy can mean. Unfortunately in Africa much of it has been man-made instead of natural. The human tragedies of Idi Amin and Milton Obote, for example, led to the deaths of more than 800,000 Ugandans'' in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Now, he said, Uganda is one of the best friends America has in Africa and ``we look forward to strengthening our relations as we both cope with the aftermath of disasters that have struck our countries.'' Kutesa's next stop in America is New York City, where he said he will participate in the annual United Nations General Assembly meeting the week of September 13-17. President Museveni plans to attend with a number of other African leaders. A highlight of the U.N. gathering, Kutesa said, will be a meeting of the foreign ministers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Uganda in a tripartite peace process for eastern Congo begun two years ago with the help of the U.S. State Department. After Burundi recently joined, the Great Lakes peace effort is now called the ``3 plus 1'' talks.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in full support of H. Con. Res. 208, which recognizes the pivotal contribution of Mrs. Rosa Louise Parks. Mrs. Parks is best known as the seamstress who became a courageous activist and changed America forever with bold defiance of segregation. Although she has been portrayed as a quiet woman, her actions have spoken volumes. Her refusal, on December 1, 1955, to yield her seat to a white patron on a Montgomery, Alabama bus resulted in a charge of disorderly conduct. However, her action precipitated the famous Montgomery Bus Boycott, which brought Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., to national prominence and prompted the U.S. Supreme Court decision to rule that segregation in public transportation is unconstitutional. As a result, many regard her as the ``Mother of the Civil Rights Movement.'' But there is far more to the story of the icon, Mrs. Rosa Parks. She was born on February 4, 1913 in Tuskegee, Alabama and educated at the Alabama State Teacher's College. Mrs. Parks and her husband, Raymond Parks, were very active in their local branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). She, in particular, served both as secretary and youth leader. After the boycott, Mrs. Parks' civil rights advocacy did not end. In 1957, she moved to Detroit to continue her work through the Office of Congressman John Conyers, Jr. Then, in 1988, after leaving his office, she started the Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute for Self Development to motivate youth to reach their highest potential. During the past four decades, she has continued to remind Americans of the history of the civil rights struggle. As a pioneer in the struggle for racial equality, subsequent generations owe her the sincerest appreciation. Although she is the recipient of innumerable honors, including the NAACP's Springarn Medal (1979), the Martin Luther King Jr. Nonviolent Peace Prize (1980), the Presidential Medal of Freedom (1996), and the Congressional Gold Medal (1999), we recognize the need for a national celebration of her contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. Mrs. Parks is a living symbol of courage and determination and an inspiration to freedom-loving people everywhere. Since 2005 marks the 50th anniversary of her act of civil disobedience and the beginning of desegregation efforts throughout America, Mr. Speaker, it behooves us to recognize her this year. It is my hope that in celebrating Mrs. Parks, this great Nation will continue to uphold her legacy.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in full support of H. Con. Res. 216, which seeks to advance the legacy of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Ninety-five years after the passage of the Fifteenth Amendment, African Americans in the South still faced tremendous obstacles to voting, including poll taxes, literacy tests, and other bureaucratic restrictions designed to disenfranchise them. In addition, they risked harassment, intimidation, economic reprisals, and physical violence when they tried to register or vote. As a result, few African Americans were registered voters, and consequently wielded little, if any, local or national political power. In the aftermath of ``Bloody Sunday'', where the rights of nonviolent civil rights marchers were brutally abridged, our nation recognized that democracy was not yet fulfilled for African-Americans. President Lyndon B. Johnson was then prompted to encourage Congress to draft a comprehensive voting rights bill. The outcome was the Voting Rights Bill of 1965, enacted on August 6, 1965. It took direct aim at black disenfranchisement in the South by targeting areas, such as Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, where fewer than 50 percent of eligible voters participated in the election. In these areas, the Federal Government was then authorized to appoint examiners to conduct the registration process, in the place of local officials. It has been argued, by the Department of Justice, that the influx of ``federal registrars represented the ultimate triumph of national policy toward minorities over state and local policies.'' Mr. Speaker, I contend that it was the long overdue enforcement of the rights provided in the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments. It is clear that the effects of the voting rights law were immediate and extensive. By 1967 black voter registration in six southern states had increased from 30 percent to more than 50 percent. There was also a correspondingly sharp increase in the number of blacks elected to political office in the South. Furthermore, in 1976, when Democrat Jimmy Carter was elected President of the United States by a narrow margin, the ``newly-enfranchised southern blacks'' were deemed to be largely responsible. Although this legislation is of particular significance to African Americans, it is truly a landmark law, which secures the franchise for all Americans regardless of ``race, color, or previous condition of servitude.'' As we approach the 40th Anniversary of the Voting Right Act, it is important that we remember to uphold and strengthen the tenets of this Act and in doing so preserve our constitutional rights. We should never forget the sacrifices made by the activists of the Civil Rights Movement, and therefore strive to continually advance their legacy in this era.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, 15 years ago, landmark civil rights legislation--the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-- was enacted to provide a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities. As we celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we reaffirm the simple premise--and the law of the land--that every American has the right to live independently and to fully participate in all aspects of our society. We also celebrate the hard-fought victories that have resulted in social inclusion so that individuals with disabilities will not be isolated and living separate lives. However, we would be remiss to think that all the barriers are behind us or that we are close to meeting the goals of the ADA. Complete implementation of ADA policies is necessary, so that individuals with disabilities can obtain jobs for which they qualify. Full and equal access for individuals with disabilities in regards to education, governmental services, public accommodations, transportation, housing, and the right to vote must also be secured. Let us remember, that this 15th commemoration of the ADA is our call to renew our efforts, to realize the promise of the ADA and to continue to work towards the restoration of full protections for disabled Americans.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a distinguished academic surgeon, Edmond F. Ritter. It is an honor to represent Dr. Ritter in the House of Representatives and it behooves us to pay tribute to this outstanding leader in American Medicine. Dr. Ritter received his Medical degree from Washington University in St. Louis, where he completed General Surgical Training. Dr. Ritter then underwent Plastic and Reconstructive Surgical Training at the University of California San Francisco. After completing his training, he was appointed to the faculty at Duke University Medical Center. He was later named, ``The Duke Distinguished Physician,'' in recognition of his contributions to the institution and patient care. Dr. Ritter is an influential member of the medical community. As a gifted surgeon with special expertise in reconstructive microsurgery, he is able to provide skilled, state-of-the-art care to patients with difficult problems. In particular, his results for patients with cancers of the head, breast, and neck are unsurpassed. Dr. Ritter has had an integral role in the training and mentorship of over 30 young plastic and reconstructive surgeons. Many of these aspiring surgeons have accepted academic positions and have become leaders in their communities. Currently, Dr. Ritter is an Associate Professor at the Medical College of Georgia. In addition to making multiple contributions to the surgical literature, he is leading an investigation of Tumor and Adult Stem cell interactions in order to advance our understanding of tumor biology. As a result, Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent upon this body to recognize the accomplishments of Dr. Edmond Ritter for sharing his talents and services to improve the medical, physical, and emotional well-being of those in need.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the legacy of my predecessor and mentor, the Honorable Shirley A. Chisholm. In order to provide her community with an enduring testament to her name, S. 571, and its companion bill H.R. 1209, will designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1915 Fulton Street in Brooklyn, New York, as the ``Congresswoman Shirley A. Chisholm Post Office Building.'' Mrs. Chisholm was a New York icon and committed public servant. She was born in Brooklyn, on November 30, 1924, graduated with honors from Brooklyn College, and earned a Master's degree from Columbia University. She was an active member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), founder of the Unity Democratic Club, and Representative in the New York State Assembly (1964-68). In 1968, Mrs. Chisholm became the first African American woman to be elected to Congress and serve for seven consecutive terms. During her congressional career (1968-82), Mrs. Chisholm served on the House Education and Labor, Veterans' Affairs and Rules Committees, where she passionately advocated for the rights of women, children, and minorities, and staunchly opposed the Vietnam War. In fact, she was unmatched as a voice for social justice. Mrs. Chisholm was also a founding member of the Congressional Caucus for Women's Issues and the Congressional Black Caucus, and the first African American to seek the nomination of a major political party for President of the United States (1972). Her ``unbought and unbossed'' political style allowed her to make friends and political alliances on both sides of the aisle. In addition, her lifetime achievements have inspired members of her Brooklyn community, and generations of women and African Americans, to engage in our nation's policymaking. We are forever grateful for her trailblazing effort. Mrs. Chisholm was truly one in a million. I am honored to have been part of her Brooklyn political circle and to have worked along side her throughout her political career. In particular, I am thankful for her recommendation of my former chief-of-staff, the late Dr. Brenda Pillors. She, like Mrs. Chisholm, was an insightful and innovative force on Capitol Hill and a source of inspiration for me. Mr. Speaker, in light of the accomplishments and contributions of The Honorable Shirley Chisholm, I deem her to be more than worthy of the designation of a post office building in her name.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, God's whisper to come on home to Brenda [Brenda Pillors], our sister in service and life, on the frontlines in the battles and opportunities to improve life and health for all, came on June 12, 2005. It is with honor that I present this special tribute in memory of our outstanding colleague and dear friend, Brenda Pillors, Chief of Staff to Congressman Ed Towns. Today, July 20th marks what would have been a celebration of Brenda's earthly birthday. Colleagues, family and friends know personally that Brenda did so very, very much to improve the lives and the quality thereof for people everywhere and across all walks of life. Brenda's impact on health legislation, policy and all other aspects thereof remains from that on minority health and health disparities, to health professions, to children's and women's health; from Medicare and Medicaid, to healthcare reform, to health commissions and agency advisory councils, to the National Health Service Corps; from NIH, to FDA, to SAMHSA, to CDC, to HRSA, to AHRQ, to OMH, to OCR, to IOM; for HIV/AIDS, to diabetes, to obesity, to sickle cell disease, to cancer, to heart disease; from clinical trials, to life trials; from bioengineering, to health technology, to alternative medicine; from behavioral health, to workforce diversity, to affirmative action. Brenda Pillors was always there--from pharmacology, to immunology, to vaccines; from hospitals, to community health centers, to men's health; from environmental health, to health justice, to nutrition, to birth defects; from the uninsured and underinsured, to urban and rural health; from infant mortality, to head start, to mental health; from nurses, to doctors, to specialists, to community health workers, to researchers; to private and public sector officials; from you to me. Her impact goes on and on--you know Brenda's tremendous heart, impact and reach. We will always remember you Brenda--your dedication, your commitment, your leadership, your expertise and your understanding, and indeed your smile, your laughter and your voice. Brenda Pillors--truly a leader in public service and servant in God's army of service and love. My ``Sister,'' we will miss you always--your legacy of achievements is written in the hearts of the lives of those you have helped and touched in oh so many, many ways. Your presence and legacy is embedded in the walls and along the halls of the U.S. Congress, and is written in legislation, Congressional hearing questions and transcripts, hearing reports, committee and conference reports, agency reports and justifications, and throughout the Congressional Record. Brenda was and truly lived the ``purpose driven life.'' Thousands, upon thousands, upon thousands, upon thousands of lives have been improved and in fact many saved, and futures are much brighter because of Brenda's life and works. The majority of the people who have and will benefit from her works will never know her. Even the lives of generations to come will benefit from her work. We have always been proud of Brenda. Dear Brenda, we thank you, and we salute you and we honor you--our ``sister in service striving throughout her life to ensure justice and equality for all--Brenda Pillors, PhD.'' Reflections of our love, appreciation and respect for Brenda Pillors, on this day which would have marked her 53rd birthday. From me to you, we thank God and your family for sharing you with us, the Nation and the world--Fredette (Fredette West).

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brenda E. Pillors on behalf of Ms. Fredette West. Mr. Speaker, on June 12, 2005, God's whisper to ``come home'' came to Brenda Pillors (Chief of Staff to Congressman Ed Towns), our sister in service and life on the frontlines in the battles and opportunities to improve life and health for all. It is with honor that I present this special tribute in memory of our outstanding colleague and dear friend, Brenda. Today, July 20th marks what would have been a celebration of Brenda's earthly birthday. Colleagues, family and friends know that Brenda did so much to improve the quality of life for all people. Brenda developed health policy and legislation that positively impacted public health domestically and internationally. Her expertise and outstanding contributions abound in the area of eliminating health disparities among communities of color, women and children, as well as the indigent and marginalized in society. She tirelessly worked on a broad range of social policy issues including Medicare and Medicaid, healthcare reform, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, obesity, sickle cell disease, cancer, heart disease, clinical life trials, bioengineering, health technology, alternative medicine, behavioral health, workforce diversity, and affirmative action. Likewise, she worked collaboratively with various health commissions, agencies, advisory councils, and programs including NIH, FDA, SAMHSA, CDC, HRSA, AHRQ, OMH, OCR, 10M, and the National Health Service Corps. Brenda Pillors was always present to advocate on a range of public health issues from pharmacology, immunology, vaccines, hospitals and community health centers, men's health, environmental health, nutrition, birth defects, the uninsured and underinsured, to urban and rural health, infant mortality, head start, mental health, primary care practitioners and community health workers, researchers, private and public sector officials, and on behalf of everyday citizens like you and me. Her presence and tremendous heart still have far-reaching impact. We will always remember you Brenda. Your dedication, commitment, leadership, expertise, understanding, voice, smile, and laughter will forever live in our hearts. Brenda Pillors was a true leader in the area of public service and an exemplary servant in God's army of love. My ``sister'' we'll miss you always. Your legacy of achievements is written in the hearts of those you touched. Your presence and legacy is embedded in the walls and along the halls of the U.S. Congress, and is also written throughout the Congressional Record and in legislation, Congressional hearing questions, transcripts, committee, conference, and agency reports. Brenda truly lived a purpose driven life. Thousands of lives have been improved and saved because of her life's works. The majority of the people who have and will benefit from her work will never know her. The lives and bright futures of generations to come will benefit from her work. We have always been proud of Brenda. Dear Brenda, we thank, salute, and honor you. Our ``sister in service'' who endeavored throughout her life to ensure justice and equality for all--Brenda Pillors, PhD. Mr. Speaker, on this day that would have marked Brenda's 53rd birthday we reflect on our love, appreciation and respect for Brenda Pillors. We thank God and her family for sharing her with the nation, the world and us.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, on July 3 in Turlock, California, the Sikh flag was raised at an event there. There were speeches from many distinguished Sikhs, including Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan, and many others. The event was organized by Dal Khalsa America, the American branch of a Sikh political party that is strongly in support of independence for Khalistan, the Sikh homeland. Leaders of Dal Khalsa have been arrested in India, along with other leaders, for raising the Khalistani flag there. In all, dozens were charged last month on the 21st anniversary of India's military attack on the Golden Temple for daring to raise the flag of Khalistan and making speeches, even though these are not crimes in India. They are not crimes in any democratic country. Yet these charges follow the arrests of 35 Sikhs in January for hoisting the Sikh flag and making speeches on India's Republic Day. These are just the latest acts in a pattern of repression that includes the killings of over 250,000 Sikhs since 1984, over 300,000 Christians in Nagaland, over 89,000 Muslims in Kashmir, tens of thousands more Christians and Muslims around the country, and tens of thousands of Assamese, Bodos, Dalits, Manipuris, Tamils, and other minorities. It seems that the more support for the freedom movement rises, the more brutal India's repression of it gets. Self-determination is the essence of democracy. But instead of settling the issue of freedom democratically in a free and fair vote, India chooses to suppress the freedom movements with excessive and brutal force. I am glad that we do not live in that kind of democracy, Mr. Speaker. Instead, we live in a country where you can say what you want, believe what you want, and raise a flag if you want. We must do what we can to help bring India to that kind of democracy, especially with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh coming for a visit soon. Mr. Speaker, the time has come to stop our aid and trade with India and to put the Congress on record in support of self-determination for the people of Punjab, Khalistan, of Kashmir (as India promised in 1948), of predominantly-Christian Nagaland, and of the other states and nations seeking their freedom. It should start with the dropping of all charges against those arrested or charged for raising a flag and with the release of all political prisoners, and I urge President Bush to bring up these two issues when Prime Minister Singh is here. Only when these goals are achieved can India be welcomed into the family of democratic nations. Only then can these minorities live in freedom, peace, security, stability, dignity, and prosperity. Mr. Speaker, I would like to place the Council of Khalistan's press release on the flag raising in California and its open letter on the charges against the Sikh activists who raised the flag into the Record at this time. Khalistan Flag Hoisted in California, USA Washington, D.C., July 12, 2005.--At an event on July 3 in Turlock, California, Sardar Paramjit Singh Sekhon and Sardar Gagandeep Singh of Dal Khalsa America, invited Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan, to hoist the flag of Khalistan. The Council of Khalistan is the government pro tempore of Khalistan. It is leading the struggle for Khalistan's independence. Dal Khalsa has led several marches and other events in Punjab to promote independence for Khalistan, the Sikh homeland that declared its independence from India on October 7, 1987. The event was shown throughout India on an Indian television channel called Aaj Tak on July 6. Dr. Aulakh was interviewed by a California representative of Voice of America. As soon as Dr. Aulakh raised the flag, slogans of ``Khalistan Zindabad'' (``Long live Khalistan'') were raised. Speakers at the event spoke out strongly for a free and independent Khalistan. Speakers included Dr. Awatar Singh Sekhon from Canada, Dr. Aulakh, Sardar Sekhon, Sardar Ajit Singh Pannu, Dr. Ranbir Singh Sandhu from Tracy, California, Sardar Karj Singh Sandhu from Philadelphia, Dr. Paramjit Singh Ajrawat, Sardar Dharam Singh Bains of Philadelphia, and others. ``If anyone speaks out for freedom, the Indian government labels them terrorists,'' Dr. Aulakh said. ``This is not going to work. Everyone knows the modus operandi of the Indian government.'' The Indian government has murdered over 250,000 Sikhs since 1984, more than 300,000 Christians in Nagaland since 1948, over 90,000 Muslims in Kashmir since 1988, and tens of thousands of Tamils, Assamese, Bodos, Manipuris, Dalits, and others. The Indian Supreme Court called the Indian government's murders of Sikhs ``worse than a genocide.'' According to a report by the Movement Against State Repression (MASR), 52,268 Sikhs are being held as political prisoners in India without charge or trial. Some have been in illegal custody since 1984! ``These prisoners never committed any crime but peacefully speaking out for Sikh freedom,'' said Dr. Aulakh. ``How can there be political prisoners in a democracy?'' he asked. ``We demand the release of all political prisoners,'' he said. ``As Professor Darshan Singh, a former Jathedar of the Akal Takht, said, `If a Sikh is not a Khalistani, he is not a Sikh','' Dr. Aulakh noted. He added that the event in Turlock was in line with the strong sentiment for freedom in Punjab, Khalistan. ``We must work hand-in-hand, the Sikh diaspora and our Sikh brothers and sisters in Punjab, Khalistan, until the glow of freedom shines on a free and sovereign Khalistan,'' he said. ``I thank Sardar Sekhon for organizing this event.'' ``The flame of freedom still burns bright in the hearts of Sikhs despite the deployment of over half a million Indian troops to crush it,'' Dr. Aulakh said. ``Last year, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh signed a bill canceling the agreements that allowed the diversion of Punjabi water to non-riparian states. The bill asserted the sovereignty of Punjab. Sardar Atinder Pal Singh, another former Member of Parliament, held a seminar on Khalistan in Punjab. It was well attended and featured outstanding presentations, including one by Professor Gurtej Singh, IAS, Professor of Sikhism,'' he said. ``Dal Khalsa has held marches through Punjab demanding the establishment of an independent Khalistan.'' On the Anniversary of the Indian government's military attack on the Golden Temple, the center and seat of Sikhism, last month, Dal Khalsa, the Khaisa Panchayat, the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar), Damdami Taksal, the Sikh Student Federation (Bittu), and the Akal Federation marched through the streets of Amritsar demanding freedom for Khalistan. They carried posters of the demolished Golden Temple and distributed pamphlets on the life of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a Sikh leader who was murdered in the Golden Temple attack along with General Shabeg Singh, Bhai Amrik Singh, and others. Bhindranwale was a strong advocate of Sikh freedom. Dal Khalsa also raised the flag of Khalistan on Republic Day, January 26. 35 Sikhs were arrested at that time. Some of them have been denied bail. Cases were registered against dozens of Sikhs for raising the Sikh flag at the Golden Temple on the anniversary of the Golden Temple attack in the presence of over 30,000 Sikhs. Warrants have been issued for their arrest. Those charged include Dal Khalsa leaders such as Kanwarpal Singh Bittu, Sarabjit Singh Ghuman, Dr. Manjinder Singh Jandi, and others, as well as former Member of Parliament Simranjit Singh Mann. History shows that multinational states such as India are doomed to failure. Countries like Austria-Hungary, India's longtime friend the Soviet Union, Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, and others prove this point. India is a polyglot like those countries, thrown together for the convenience of the British colonialists. It is doomed to break up as they did. Steve Forbes, writing in Forbes magazine, said that India is a multinational, multiethnic, multireligious, multicultural, multilinguistic state that is doomed to disintegrate like the Austro-Hungarian Empire. ``We must continue to pray for and work for our God-given birthright of freedom,'' Dr. Aulakh said. ``Without political power, religions cannot flourish and nations perish.''

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to have my name removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 2355.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Ella Adene Kemp Bampfield. Mrs. Kemp Bampfield was born on June 29, 1905 in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Waynesville, North Carolina. She is the fourth of nine children born to Elijah and Lelia Kemp. However, she is currently the sole survivor. Mrs. Kemp Bampfield attended elementary school in Waynesville. Then she enrolled in the high school division of Livingstone College in Salisbury, N.C., and graduated as the valedictorian of her senior class. Following high school, she attended Fayetteville State Normal College, Howard University and Cortez Peters Business College. Mrs. Kemp Bampfield's first marriage was blessed with one child, Admiral Dewey Dunn. Admiral Dewey Dunn, now deceased, had two sons: Anthony Dewey Dunn and Amiel Dunn. She later married Robert Smalls Bampfield of Beaufort, South Carolina, now deceased. Mrs. Kemp Bampfield's career included teaching for 7 years in North Carolina. Upon moving to D.C., she was employed with the U.S. Treasury Department Division of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. She retired on October 31, 1969 after nearly 29 years of service. Since retirement, Mrs. Kemp Bampfield and her grandson, Anthony, have enjoyed traveling. They have visited most of the contiguous United States, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, the Caribbean, Thailand, Hong Kong, China, Mexico, Spain, Germany, France, Italy, Jerusalem, and England. Mrs. Kemp Bampfield has been a faithful member of John Wesley AME Zion Church of Washington, D.C. since 1934. In addition, she and her grandson, Anthony, have resided in Washington, D.C. for the past 55 years. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize Mrs. Kemp Bampfield's lifelong accomplishments and her upcoming milestone 100th birthday.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in absolute opposition to the proposed appropriation cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The CPB has been funding, great American treasures including PBS and National Public Radio, free of political influence or favoritism. These entities have become staples of society and to cut or diminish their badly needed funding is plainly, wrong. Mr. Chairman, during a time in which this body claims to be the saviors of family values, I find it odd that it chooses to undermine public broadcasting, which truly embodies family values and clean programming. The television and radio can be a precarious place for young and impressionable minds. Much of what is sent over the airwaves is unsafe for the development children. The excessive violence and sex that is often found on TV is alarming to parents who are constantly looking for a viable alternative to the negative influences prevalent on television. Mr. Speaker, PBS has been that oasis and refugee for families. Its educational and wholesome programming allows parents and children alike, to watch shows that place an emphasis on the positive aspects of American culture. Too often modern entertainers glorify the worst of our society and it is imperative that we counter that influence with the positive shows found on PBS and NPR. I urge my colleagues here today to rise up in support of CPB, wholesome broadcasting and family values by rejecting these cuts to CPB.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to take note of the demonstrations in Punjab, Khalistan that surrounded the 21st anniversary of the Indian government's attack on the Golden Temple. Groups such as Dal Khalsa and others marched through the streets of Amritsar, converging at the Golden Temple for a big rally, according to The Times of India. They carried posters of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a Sikh freedom leader killed in the Golden Temple attacks, as well as posters of the demolished Golden Temple. As you know, the Indian government also attacked 125 other Gurdwaras--Sikh places of worship--at the same time. Over 20,000 Sikhs were killed. The Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib, was shot full of bullet holes. Sikh boys between the ages of 8 and 13 were shot on the premises. Former Member of Parliament Simranjit Singh Mann said that the only way to assuage the wounds of the attack is by freeing Khalistan, the Sikh homeland. Another speaker said that the movement to free Khalistan is by peaceful means. Khalistan declared its independence from India in 1997. That is now eight years ago. Police and intelligence operatives were surreptitiously watching this peaceful demonstration. Apparently, 21 years after the Golden Temple attack, the Sikhs' demand for freedom still frightens them. India claims it is democratic, Mr. Speaker, yet it sends police to spy on a peaceful demonstration. In January, 35 Sikhs were arrested for raising the Sikh flag and making speeches. The Movement Against State Repression reports that over 52,000 Sikhs are political prisoners in ``the world's largest democracy.'' More than a quarter of a million Sikhs have been murdered, according to figures compiled from the Punjab State Magistracy. Sikhs are only one of India's targets. Other minorities such as Christians, Muslims, and others have also been subjected to tyrannical repression. More than 300,000 Christians have been killed in Nagaland, and thousands elsewhere in the country. Over 900,000 Kashmir Muslims, at least 2,000 to 5,000 Muslims in Gujarat, and thousands of other Muslims, have been victims of India's tyranny. And tens of thousands of people in Assam, Bodoland, Manipur, Tamil Nadu, and around the country, as well as countless Dalit ``Untouchables'' have been killed as well. Mr. Speaker, this is unacceptable. We must take a stand for freedom for all, as the President committed us to doing in January. The time has come to stop all our aid and trade with India, to end our burgeoning military cooperation, and to demand the peaceful resolution of the situation in South Asia through a free and fair plebiscite for all the national groups there. Mr. Speaker, I would like to put the Times of India article about the demonstration into the Record at this time. [From the Times of India, Jun. 6, 2005] Khalistan Demand Raised on Genocide Day (By Yudhvir Rana) Amritsar.--The pent up secessionist emotions of Sikh radicals whipped up on the Genocide Day observed as Ardas Divas at Akal Takht on Monday, as a large number of Sikh youth including women brandishing naked swords raised slogans for Sikh's independent state Khalistan while passing pejorative remarks against SAD-Badal president Parkash Singh Badal and SGPC president Bibi Jagir Kaur for not coming up to the aspirations of Sikhs and addressing their problems. The ferocity of slogans multiplied after Sikh radical leader Simranjit Singh Mann, president of SAD (Amritsar) announced that Sikhs's hurt feelings could only be assuaged when Sikhs independent state Khalistan comes into existence. He suggested that Khalistan could be created on the buffer zone between India and Pakistan. Baba Harnam Singh, 15th chief of Damdami Taksal joined Simranjit Singh Mann with his arms wielding supporters and announced to observe the martyrdom day of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhinderanwalae at Taksal's headquarters at Gurdwara Gurdarshan Parkash, Chowk Mehta on June 12. The radical activists including from Dal Khalsa, Dal Khalsa, SAD(A), Damdami Taksal, Sikh Students Federation (Bittu), Akal Federation jointly put up the board of Shaheedee Gallery at the gallery situated outside Akal Takht against the wishes of SGPC. A large number of Sikhs and converged at Akal Takht on the 21st anniversary of Operation Bluestar. Posters of demolished Akal Takht, Sikh militant leaders and pamphlet on the life of Jarnail Singh Bhinderanwalae were distributed among Sikh sangat. A large number of policemen in plain clothes and sleuths of various intelligence agencies were hovering around the Akal Takht and its surrounding. A police officer of DSP rank remained present among Sikh sangat sitting in front of Akal Takht during the ceremony. Earlier Parkash Singh Badal and Bibi Jagir Kaur condemned congress government for rubbing salt to the wounds of Sikhs. About the postponement of foundation stone alying ceremony of Yadgara-e-Shaheedan, Badal said the foundation stone would be laid once its design was approved. Justifying the demand of Khalistan, Jagjit Singh Chauhan, a Khalistan ideologue said that they would peruse their mission through peaceful democratic means. Jathedar of Akal Tkaht, Giani Joginder Singh Vedanti presented siropas's to Ishar Singh, Mata Pritam Kaur son and wife of Jarnail Singh Bhinderanwalae and relatives of other martyrs. Earlier addressing the gathering he said it was unfortunate that even after 21 years of Operation Bluestar, the central government has not condemned the incident nor those responsible for the 1984 anti Sikh riots have been brought to books and Operation Bluestar was a black chapter in the history of Independent India. The Sikhs had laid down their lives under the aegis of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhinderanwalae to protect the sanctity of gurdhams. Meanwhile Damdami Taksal presented photographs of Jarnail Singh, Amrik Singh, Shubeg Singh and Thara Singh to Jathedar of Akal Takht Giani Joginder Singh Vedanti for displaying them in the gallery. Vedanti however asked them to contemplate over their request. Meanwhile chief spokesperson of Damdami Taksal. Bhai Mohkam Singh said that they also performed ardas at the gallery's gate. He said panth would decide if there was no desirable reply from Jathedar. On the other hand SAD(A) had demanded to display the photograph of Jarnail Singh Bhinderanwalae at central Sikh Museum, handing over of personal belongings of Bhinderanwale by his family, Taksal and Army to panth without any conditions, naming the road between Sri Guru Arjun Dev Niwas to Sri Hargobind Niwas on Sant Jarnail Singh Marg, setting up of a Sant Jarnail Singh Dharmik Vidya Kendar and beginning of Shaheed Bhai Amrik Singh Award for those schools helping to check apostism among Sikhs and General Shubeg Sigh Award to promote traditional sports.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a distinguished and accomplished Brooklynite, Winston P. Thompson. It is an honor to represent Mr. Thompson in the House of Representatives and it behooves us to pay tribute to such an exemplary citizen. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Thompson worked diligently and attained his undergraduate and graduate degrees from St. Francis College and Pace University. His work experience is impressive--from being employed as an auditing officer for Morgan Guaranty Trust Company, a Wall Street Investment Banking firm, for two years, and a big five international accounting and consulting firm, where he remained for five years. Over the past 20 years, he has demonstrated deep devotion and civic commitment as a CPA and Financial Planner by offering tax and financial services to the Brooklyn community. In addition, he is the founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Thompson & Company, a Certified Public Accounting and Consulting firm based in Downtown Brooklyn, which recently enjoyed its twentieth year in operation. Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the achievements and service of Mr. Thompson. He continues to offer his talents and services for the betterment of the community through his involvement in several community activities and organizations, particularly as a Member of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce, the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and the Bedford Stuyvesant Real Estate Board. Mr. Speaker, may our country continue to benefit from the civic actions of committed and talented individuals such as Winston P. Thompson.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a Brooklynite and distinguished lawyer, Vincent Johnson. It is an honor to represent Mr. Johnson in the House of Representatives and it behooves us to pay tribute to such an outstanding leader. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Johnson obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brooklyn College and a Juris Doctor degree at St. John's University School of Law. Before completing his undergraduate studies, Mr. Johnson dedicated four years of service to the United States Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Airman first class and was assigned to the Scott Air Force Base in Belleville, Illinois and Tachikawa Air Force Base in Japan. Mr. Johnson became an associate in the Admiralty Law firm of Fields & Rosen upon graduating from St. John's University School of Law, and was appointed an assistant District Attorney in the Kings County District Attorney's office, where he generously devoted eight years serving the community. Mr. Johnson is now dedicated to the general practice of law and holds an office at 26 Court Street. He remains particularly active in several organizations, including the Bedford Stuyvesant Lions Club, Brooklyn Bar Association, Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity, 100 Black Men of New York, and Comus Social Club. Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the achievements and selfless service of Mr. Johnson as he continues to offer his talents and philanthropic services for the betterment of the community. Mr. Speaker, may our country continue to benefit from the civic actions of altruistic community leaders such as Mr. Vincent Johnson.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a Brooklynite and distinguished entrepreneur, DeCosta Headley. It is an honor to represent Mr. Headley in the House of Representatives and it behooves us to pay tribute to such an outstanding leader. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Headley obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Behavioral Science from Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina. He became a successful entrepreneur, serving as the president of Diversified Inch By Inch, Inc., one of the city's leading African- American general contracting firms. In this position, Mr. Headley demonstrated deep commitment to the community through several development projects that his company undertook, including the construction of local medical and dental facilities for Oxford Health Plans, Brookdale Hospital & Medical Center, and Interfaith Medical Center, and new housing, including a multi-level senior citizens apartment complex for Berean Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Headley launched efforts of urban renewal by assisting in the development of senior citizen housing and youth centers for communities in need across the five boroughs. Mr. Headley has exhibited the qualities of an exemplary community leader in his service as District Leader for the 40th Assembly District in the East New York section of Kings County. During his term, he remained dedicated to improving the quality of life for his constituents by continuously engaging in initiatives aimed at expanding college scholarships, employment opportunities, affordable housing, public assistance services, and social services, including senior citizen centers that offer hot meals, transportation, and access to basic health care services. In addition, he remained actively involved on various local community and planning boards, founded the community's first Local Development Corporation along with the Federation of Block Associations for East New York, and established the Federation of Addiction Agencies that offers a drug-free treatment program in East New York and Brownsville. Currently, Mr. Headley enormously contributes to the political sector of the community by successfully managing the campaigns of candidates running for positions in the city, state, and federal levels of government. Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the remarkable achievements and selfless service of Mr. Headley as he continues to benevolently extend his talents and services for the betterment of the community. Mr. Speaker, may our country continue to benefit from the civic actions of committed and laudable community leaders such as Mr. DeCosta Headley.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding leader, Raquel Shivdat. Ms. Shivdat may not have a very visible personality, but behind the scenes she is one of the biggest influences in the explosion of Caribbean music entertainment in New York City. As Promotion and Marketing manager of the JMC Entertainment Inc. (which includes JMC records, JMC Trevini band and Rum Jungle Bar and Restaurant), Ms. Shivdat's responsibilities range from the promotion of shows to the management of music recordings. After more than twelve years in the entertainment industry, Ms. Shivdat has become a defining force. Ms. Shivdat rose through the ranks in the family's business, starting as flyer designer at JMC Records and later working at the family's Roti Express diner. Additionally, Ms. Shivdat managed to pursue a degree in Fashion Marketing at Berkeley College in New Jersey, while managing her household as a wife and mother of two boys, Tyler and Shane. At Rum Jungle, Ms. Shivdat produces at least one concert every month involving artists from the West Indies. The biggest names in Soca and Chutney music are regular performers at the club. Ms. Shivdat also brought the legendary Indian performers Babla and Kanchan to New York. Ms. Shivdat also makes regular contributions to charitable organizations and committee projects in New York and has done fund raisers at Rum Jungle for the Prime Ministers of Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana. At 32 years old, Ms. Shivdat has become a key member of the JMC Company and she says that she always draws inspiration from her father Mohan Jaikairan who owns the business. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Shivdat, a wife, mother and entrepreneur, is both passionate about her chosen field of music and her community. Thus, we proudly recognize her today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a Brooklynite and distinguished lawyer, Charles E. Simpson. It is an honor to represent Mr. Simpson in the House of Representatives and it behooves us to pay tribute to such an outstanding leader. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Simpson received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1974, graduating magna cum laude from Pepperdine University and named a Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellow. He subsequently obtained his Juris Doctor from Harvard University in 1978. Before completing his undergraduate studies, Mr. Simpson dedicated three years of service to the United States Air Force. As a lawyer, Mr. Simpson often represents debtors and creditors in Chapter 11 Reorganization cases. He is currently a partner of Windels Marx Lane & Mittendorf, LLP, and chairs the firm's Bankruptcy, Creditors' Rights and Workouts Practice Group, and is a member of the Corporate and Securities, Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Real Estate Practice Groups. Mr. Simpson has served as counsel to me since 1981. He also acted as outside counsel to the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation from 1983 through 1996. Mr. Simpson engaged in several philanthropic activities and demonstrated true dedication by serving on the Board of Directors of the Brooklyn Children's Museum, the Brooklyn Red Cross, and the Queens Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, as well as acting as Brooklyn's representative on the Board of Directors of the New York City Public Development Corporation. He was also active as a member of the Brooklyn Area Council of Boy Scouts of America and the New York State Bar Association's Committee on Minorities in the Profession. Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments and selfless service of Mr. Simpson as he continues to offer his talents and philanthropic services for the betterment of the community. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Charles E. Simpson has continuously demonstrated his altruistic dedication to the community that makes him more than worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the accomplishments of Yolande I. Nicholson. Ms. Nicholson obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Journalism at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. Then she earned a Juris Doctor from Columbia University School of Law, where she was actively involved in the Columbia Journal of Transnational Law. As a student, she received the Harry S. Truman Congressional scholarship, George B. Dealy Journalism Award, and a Distinction in Political Theory for academic excellence. In 1994, she received the Mayoral Special Achievement Award for commitment to economic development projects involving small businesses and entrepreneurial activities in New York City. Ms. Nicholson began her admirable career as a legal assistant at Bozeman & Trott, P.C. in Mount Vernon, New York, and subsequently held executive roles in several prominent financial institutions, including Vice President and Transaction Execution Manager at J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Vice President and Assistant General Counsel at Chase Manhattan Bank. She now holds the position of Executive Vice President and General Counsel at the Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation in Brooklyn, where she has served since June 2004. Ms. Nicholson has continually shared her talents and experience to help others. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I proudly recognize Ms. Yolande I. Nicholson, an asset to the community.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor JoAnn Lum. Ms. Lum, the daughter of Chinese immigrants, recently won the Nation's highest community health leadership honor for mobilizing sweatshop workers and Lower Manhattan victims of 9/11 to seek improved access to benefits and quality health services as part of a larger effort to gain control of their lives. Ms. Lum is one of 10 outstanding individuals from across the country chosen to receive this year's Robert Wood Johnson Community Health Leadership Program award. While growing up in California, Lum observed the hardships suffered by her father and other relatives as they put in long hours as `houseboys,' busboys and garment workers. During a stint in the Manhattan Borough President's office in the early 1990s, she volunteered as an English teacher for Chinese immigrants and was inspired by the impact of workers organizing to improve conditions. Ms. Lum founded the National Mobilization Against SweatShops (NMASS) to harness the power of worker campaigns to create healthier workplaces and communities. She works primarily with Latina, Afro-Caribbean, Polish and African American women and men. In one project, she is targeting injured workers' access to benefits and medical treatment, campaigning to overhaul the Workers' Compensation system. In addition, she is calling for an end to `forced overtime' and other unfair practices, to prevent injuries among more workers. A testament to Ms. Lum's work is a statement from a Polish immigrant who suffered chemical injuries as an asbestos worker and received assistance from Ms. Lum's organization: ``I joined NMASS after being denied my Workers'' Compensation benefits numerous times. I was alone and felt powerless, with no money or health care. JoAnn not only assisted me to get needed medical treatment, but has opened my eyes to how disabled workers like myself can join together to advocate for fair health benefits.'' Another NMASS initiative launched by Lum, called ``Beyond Ground Zero,'' is a coalition of pubic health advocates, doctors, clergy and community groups that came together in response to the health crisis among Lower Manhattan's poor population following 9/11. The coalition compelled private entities to create disaster health insurance for individuals working in Lower Manhattan whose health and income were damaged by 9/11. And in Partnership with Bellevue Hospital, the coalition started a treatment and documentation program for respiratory problems and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms experienced by victims who were largely ignored by other relief efforts. More than 3,000 people attended two Lower Manhattan town hall meetings organized by Ms. Lum. Ultimately, her coalition assisted 10,000 poor families in accessing medical coverage and treatment or disaster relief. Ms. Lum's coalition continues to advodate for public and private support for programs that address the longterm health needs of the working poor in Lower Manhattan. ``JoAnn is gifted with the ability to create a movement where the people who must speak for themselves are the center of the work,'' said one of Lum's nominators. The Robert Wood Johnson Community Health Leadership Program distributes $1.2 million each year to innovators who have creatively surmounted obstacles to meet the challenges of providing health care and social services to the underserved members of their communities. Ms. Lum and this year's other winners will be honored at a June event in Washington, D.C. She will receive $105,000 to apply to her program and a $15,000 personal award. Ms. Lum was chosen from nearly 700 people nominated this year. Since 1992, the program has given 133 awards in 45 states, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. Award winners are nominated by civic leaders, health professionals, government representatives and others inspired by their efforts to provide essential health services to their communities. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Lum is motivated by the disparity and inconsistencies that she observes in her community. She believes that a commitment to help those who are regarded as less fortunate is a small price to pay. Her commitment in turn inspires others to continue to strive for a better future. Ms. Lum is more than worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Jennifer Flynn. For close to two years, Jennifer Flynn ended her workday by standing for six hours in front of New York City's largest welfare center. She and other activists took their place on the sidewalk whether it rained or snowed to protest the lack of legally mandated emergency housing for homeless people living with AIDS. Ms. Flynn is one of 10 outstanding individuals from across the country chosen to receive this year's Robert Wood Johnson Community Health Leadership Program award. The unusual strategy, combined with litigation and public education, resulted in the City being found in contempt of a court order--and insured that nearly every homeless New Yorker living with AIDS who needed emergency housing received it. Ms. Flynn didn't stop there. She went on to co-found and direct the New York City AIDS Housng Network (NYCAHN), which has seen to it that housing is provided to every single New Yorker with HIV/AIDS who requests shelter. HIV has hit low-income people of color harder than any other demographic group in New York City. A full 92 percent of New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS are from communities of color. Of Ms. Flynn, Christine Quinn, Councilmember for the 3rd District says: ``Jennifer Flynn has managed to be a constant activist for the rights of homeless and low-income people living with HIV/AIDS, while building an organization in this time of financial hardship. She is fearless in her advocacy.'' Teaching people with HIV/AIDS to advocate on their own behalf has been key to Ms. Flynn's success. In fact, NYCAHN is a membership organization led by people living with HIV/AIDS. She has trained more than 1,000 of NYCAHN's members in community organizing and advocacy. Recently, she and her staff pressured the New York City Council to release a report about its emergency housing system. NYCAHN's efforts led to the introduction of the first bill in U.S. history that insures permanent housing for people living with AIDS/HIV. She has also exposed the dangerous conditions that exist in illegal rooming houses the City was using to house formerly incarcerated people with AIDS/HIV. One woman who works at NYCAHN and finds shelter for people living with HIV/AIDS every day says, ``We are all willing to do this grueling work because we know that Jennifer is working 10 times harder all of the time. She is there fighting with her heart to make sure that we have access to housing and to our human rights.'' The Robert Wood Johnson Community Health Leadership Program distributes $1.2 million each year o innovators who have creatively surmounted obstacles to meet the challenges of providing health care and social services to the underserved members of their communities. Ms. Flynn and this year's other winners will be honored at a June event in Washington, D.C. She will receive $105,000 to apply to her program and a $15,000 personal award. Ms. Flynn was chosen from nearly 700 people nominated this year. Since 1992, the program has given 133 awards in 45 states, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. Award winners are nominated by civic leaders, health professionals, government representatives and others inspired by their efforts to provide essential health services to their communities. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Flynn is motivated by the disparity and inconsistencies that she observes in her community. She believes that a commitment to help those who are regarded as less fortunate is a small price to pay. Her commitment in turn inspires others to continue to strive for a better future. Ms. Flynn is more than worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Dr. Roger Witherspoon. Dr. Witherspoon completed his undergraduate studies at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. He is a graduate of Adelphi University's Graduates School of Social Work in Garden City, New York and earned his doctorate degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Dr. Witherspoon previously was Associate Dean of Student Affairs at CUNY Lehman College. He is currently the Vice- President of Student Development at CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice where his responsibilities include chairing the Communication Skills and Counseling Department, administrative oversight of Student Activities, Freshman Program, Children's Center, Career Advisement, Women's Center, Disabled Student Services, Financial Aid, Health Services, Co-op Education/Internships, and Student Support Services. Prior to his appointment as Vice-President, Dr. Witherspoon taught both graduate and undergraduate courses in education and social work for over 17 years. He has lectured at Columbia University, St. John's University, San Francisco State, Smith College, Fordham University, and many others. His publications on urban education have appeared in national and local journals. Two of his recent publications are ``Do You Know If Your Child Has a Credit Card,'' in the New York Times and ``Handling Cultural Diversification Efforts of College Campuses,'' in the Journal of Mediation. Dr. Witherspoon was a member of the Board of the Queens Children's Psychiatric Center. He has also served on many boards that include childcare, teen pregnancy, and community mental health. Dr. Witherspoon was selected as a participant in the 23rd Annual Session of the Harvard University's Institute for Educational Management, Class of 1992. Dr. Witherspoon has participated in conferences held on ``International Perspectives: Crime, Justice and Public Order'' in Russia, Ireland, Turkey, Italy, England, Hungary and most recently Romania. He was involved in the establishment of a branch campus in Puerto Rico that has awarded 4,400 Associates Degrees to police cadets and currently a program for New York City Police Officers to teach cultural diversity and leadership. Dr. Witherspoon has been involved at national and local levels consulting on issues of urban education and social work, with a focus on urban minorities. His visits to South Africa, Ireland, Dominican Republic, Namibia, Turkey, South Korea, Slovenia, England, Guyana. Jamaica, and throughout the Caribbean have only increased his awareness of International Education and Criminal Justice. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Roger Witherspoon's continued his commitment to higher education and social development have made him more than worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the accomplishments of Lonnie McCoy Bright. Lonnie McCoy Bright, affectionately known as ``Coy,'' is a native of Belleross, North Carolina. He is the son of the late Zerus and Lona Mae Bright, and was raised in New York City. He received his education in the New York City public schools, culminating with his graduation from George Westinghouse Vocational High School. Then, he devoted 30 years of loyal service to United States Postal Service. Mr. Bright is a former Board member of the NAACP Brooklyn Branch, a founding member and Treasurer of Congressman Edolphus Towns' Men's Caucus, former Treasurer and Worshipful Master of the African 459 Lodge #63, and President Emeritus of the Masters Council. Currently, Mr. Bright is an active, dedicated member of the Berean Baptist Church. He is on the Trustee Board and serves as the Treasurer of the church. He has organized numerous voter registration drives in his community, East New York, and the Bedford-Stuyvesant sections of Brooklyn. He has also sponsored ``Making Books Come Alive'' a day of reading and dramatizing stories for children. He loves to cook and is an annual participant in the Men Who Cook-Cook-Offs. His greatest love, after his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, is his wife Vivian Y. Bright, and they are the proud parents of Teresa, Gary, James (deceased), Marvin Jamal and Tiffany. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize Mr. Bright's remarkable leadership and service.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge Thomas Cave for his outstanding community service. Mr. Cave is a native of Augusta, Georgia, and has been a resident of the Bedford-Stuyvesant community for the past fifty-five years. In Bedford-Stuyvesant, he has volunteered his time and shared his experience in order to improve the quality of life of his community. He is particularly concerned with the plight of youth and senior citizens. Mr. Cave has served the Unity Democratic Club for over twenty-five years as Chairperson of the Men's Council and President of the Club for four years. Under his tutelage several programs were created, including the Scholarship Program at Boys and Girls High School, and the Chess Club Program at P.S. 5. Mr. Cave has received many awards, including Learning Leader from P.S. 5 for his dedication and commitment to the school and community. He has also secured a Certificate of Recognition from State Senator Ada L. Smith and the Exemplary Service Award from Unity Democratic Club. In addition to his political and civic involvement, Mr. Cave is an avid traveler and devoted family man. As a result, we proudly recognize him today.