Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in order to express my support for H. Con. Res. 285, which recognizes the important role that fathers play in the lives of their children and families and supports the goals and ideals of designating 2010 as the Year of the Father. I would also like to commend Representative McMorris Rodgers for sponsoring this bill and showing her commitment to recognizing the crucial role of fathers. I grew up with both of my parents in my life. My father worked for the Department of Justice for a large portion of his career. He eventually became the Director of Classifications and Paroles for the Bureau of Prisons and was the highest ranking African-American in the Bureau at that time. I saw my father work hard everyday in an effort to provide for his family. His value system transferred to me, and I make it a point to influence my children in the same way my father positively influenced me. I know without a doubt that my father helped me to develop into the man I am today. There are numerous studies and statistics that all show fathers are crucial to the development of a child. Children who grow up with the love and care of their fathers are more likely to exhibit strong self- confidence and are more likely to avoid high-risk behaviors. In honoring fathers with this resolution, I would also like to offer a challenge to all fathers to make an effort to develop healthy, loving relationships with their children.…”