Remarks on H Con Res 37: Condemning Anti-Semitic Statements of Russian Duma Members

March 23, 1999

March 23, 1999

Remarks on H Con Res 37: Condemning Anti-Semitic Statements of Russian Duma Members

Mr. Speaker, I am proud that this Congress today has decided not to overlook the anti-Semitic statements made by members of the Russian Duma. Anti-Semitism is on the rise in Russia. The resolution we are considering today demonstrates our concern and our commitment to stop this trend.

For the people of my district, there is no option. Many are survivors or the descendants of those who survived an era filled with events that we must never allow to be repeated.

The recent surge of anti-Semitism in Russia is dangerously reminiscent of pre-nazi Germany.

While we are condemning words spoken by Russian Duma members, we need to remember the effect just words have had in the past.

The anti-Semitic statements from the members of the Russian Duma scare me. They remind me of how easy it can be for history to repeat itself.

We need to act now to condemn these statements, to ensure that this country and the world never forget and never allow hateful words to lead to hateful deeds.

This resolution also commends President Yeltsin and other Russian Duma members, who have spoken out against these racist statements.