Gus Bilirakis: “I thank Chairman Engel for his friendship and all his good work over the years, as well. Again, I also thank…”

“I thank Chairman Engel for his friendship and all his good work over the years, as well. Again, I also thank Representative Smith, my good friend, for sponsoring this piece of legislation. As co-chair of the International Religious Freedom Caucus, I rise in strong support of H.R. 221, the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Act. The Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism was established by the Global Anti-Semitism Review Act. The Special Envoy develops and implements policies and projects to support efforts to combat anti- Semitism globally. This bill elevates the position to the rank of ambassador, directly reporting to the Secretary of State, sending a clear message to the world regarding our commitment to combating anti-Semitism. In addition to requiring the position be filled, the bill prevents the appointee from holding any other office, making this a priority and ensuring their sole focus is monitoring and combating the scourge of anti-Semitism. Throughout history, humanity has experienced tremendous evil, Mr. Speaker. Our brightest moments as a Nation were those when we recognized evil and worked together to swiftly and unapologetically defeat it. Our darkest moments were those when we stood by and did nothing while making excuses for our passivity. Combating anti-Semitism and promoting human rights are pivotal components of American diplomacy and foreign policy. Additionally, dedicated U.S.…”