On the recordSeptember 11, 2012
Thank you. I rise today to express my strong support for H.R. 1410 and also for H. Res. 484. This bill and resolution really embody a great concern of many of my constituents at home as well as of Americans across this country. As Americans, we often take for granted the rights and privileges that are guaranteed to each and every individual in this country. We can speak out at town halls, and we can protest in front of the Capitol steps. When all else fails, we can register our votes at the polls to make our voices heard. Those rights and privileges that we enjoy are being denied every single day to the people of Vietnam. So, today, we vote on this bill and this resolution in order to send a clear message that these abuses will not be tolerated. We must make it clear that progress needs to be made on these issues before we can move forward on other issues that are important to both of our countries, including the issue of trade. Our efforts are aimed at bringing about a brighter future in Vietnam where citizens are not in prison for the songs they write and where individuals are not arrested for carrying books on nonviolent resistance. It's sad, but these remain to be the facts of life for the people of Vietnam. In the words of one of my constituents, We can make a difference if we come together. Let's start by voting ``yes'' on H.R. 1410 and also on the resolution that we will next be talking about, H. Res. 484.
