SCHAKOWSKY OPPOSES ANY CONGRESSIONAL ACTION TO FORCE ELIAN GONZALEZ TO STAY IN THE UNITED STATES. CALLS ON RENO TO REUNITE ELIAN WITH HIS FATHER

CALLS ON RENO TO REUNITE ELIAN WITH HIS FATHER

WASHINGTON, D.C - U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today called on Attorney General Janet Reno to reunite Elian Gonzalez with his father in Cuba. Schakowsky also said that she opposes any Congressional action that would force the young boy to remain in the United States.

In a letter to Attorney General Janet Reno, Schakowsky wrote, "The sad truth is that Elian has already lost one parent. It would be a tragedy if he were forced to grow up without the other parent, who is only ninety miles away."

Below is the letter to Attorney General Reno.

March 31, 2000
The Honorable Janet Reno
Attorney General
United States Department of Justice

Dear Attorney General Reno:

I applaud you and the administration for taking the necessary steps to reunite Elian Gonzalez with his father.

However, it is unfortunate that INS officials are forced to negotiate for the safety of Elian Gonzalez. I am also extremely disappointed that there are those who will stop at nothing to prevent the reunion of Elian and his father.

It has been clear from the start that this boy should return home to his family in Cuba. That is why I urge you to immediately enforce your decision that Elian's father, and his father alone, has the right to make decisions on his behalf. The sad truth is that Elian has already lost one parent. It would be a tragedy if he were forced to grow up without the other parent, who is only ninety miles away.

Thank you for your leadership on this issue. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Jan Schakowsky
Member of Congress