SCHAKOWSKY STANDS READY TO WORK WITH ALL HOUSE MEMBERS TO DEMONSTRATE U.S. COMPASSION TO THE WORLD IN RESPONSE TO TSUNAMIS IN ASIA

JANUARY 3, 2005

SCHAKOWSKY STANDS READY TO WORK WITH ALL HOUSE MEMBERS TO DEMONSTRATE U.S. COMPASSION
TO THE WORLD IN RESPONSE TO TSUNAMIS IN ASIA

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Chief Deputy Whip, today said that she stands ready to work with her Republican and Democratic colleagues in Congress as the United States plans its response to the humanitarian crisis that resulted from the tsunamis that struck Asia. Schakowsky added that constituents who wish to assist with tsunami relief efforts may go to her website at www.house.gov/schakowsky to get more information.

"The worldwide response to this human tragedy, which measures the loss of life in the hundreds of thousands and those at immediate risk in the millions, was swift and generous. The United States has joined the world in a mission of compassion to save lives and help those tsunami-torn nations with a promise of at least $350 million in aid and military personnel on the ground to assist the victims," Schakowsky said.

She added, "As the sole super power, we have a unique opportunity to demonstrate to the world our nation's compassion by using our vast wealth, boundless resources and logistical support to bring about a measure of relief to the millions of people suffering today in Asia. And the Bush Administration has a chance to improve the image of the United States among the Islamic and developing nations, our allies and to work in close cooperation with the United Nations and the international community as we lead the world in responding to this disaster."

"I stand ready to work with my Republican and Democratic colleagues as we plan our nation's response to this horrific humanitarian calamity," Schakowsky concluded.

The 109th Congress will convene tomorrow, and Members of Congress are expected to discuss the U.S. response to the disaster in the upcoming weeks.