Expressing Condolences to Haiti

EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES TO HAITI

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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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