Expressing Condolences to Haiti

by Alexander N. Green

                    EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES TO HAITI

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. AL GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 20, 2010

  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, I would like to extend my
support to H. Res. 1021, which expresses condolences to and solidarity
with the people of Haiti in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake
of January 12, 2010.
  I would like to thank my colleague, Barbara Lee, chairwoman of the
Congressional Black Caucus, for offering this legislation and express
heartfelt condolences and sympathy for the people of Haiti in the wake
of this horrific natural disaster.
  On January 12, 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the country of
Haiti. An estimated 3 million people have been directly affected by the
disaster in Haiti, more than 1.5 million people left homeless, and
severe damage has been sustained by roads, ports, hospitals, and homes.
  The challenges in helping Haiti are immense, and the U.S. and partner
countries have made important contributions to the recovery efforts. I
commend the Obama administration for granting Temporary Protected
Status for Haitian nationals in the United States, many of whom are
unable to return home due to the destruction in Haiti.
  I applaud the individuals, businesses and philanthropic organizations
across the United States and throughout the international community who
have responded to the crisis in Haiti with an outpouring of generosity
and support.
  It is clear that the people of Haiti are now facing a humanitarian
crisis that is unimaginable and that will take years to recover from. I
support a sustained commitment to people of Haiti and encourage
innovative thinking in providing long-term assistance to the country.
  I am committed to helping the Haitian people recover from this
tragedy and to rebuild their homes, communities, and lives in the days,
weeks and years to come.
  Again, thank you to Rep. Barbara Lee for introducing this resolution
and urge all my colleagues to support H. Res. 1021.

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