Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about Human Rights Day. This past Saturday, I was honored to speak in commemoration of Human Rights Day, a day chosen to honor the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The declaration was the world's first bill of rights. When many from all corners of the globe were fighting for basic freedoms--freedom of speech, freedom of religion, people from fear and repression--the declaration assured them that they were fighting the good fight and they were on the right side of history. Today I stand to recognize the men and women who are still fighting for these freedoms, including the seven democracy and land rights activists and 15 youth activists who have been illegally detained by the Vietnamese Government. All individuals deserve the right to peacefully express their concerns. I call on my colleagues to stand side by side with these brave individuals and raise their voice in demanding that the Government of Vietnam release all prisoners of conscience and uphold their commitment to human rights for all. ____________________”