This weekend, the President used racist, xenophobic tropes to divide the country and evoke fear and anger. These words were a deplorable, bigoted act that betrays the principles of our great Nation and demeans the memories of all those who sacrificed so much in our ongoing pursuit of a more perfect Union. Whether you were born here, arrived as an immigrant, or came as a refugee, every citizen, naturalized or otherwise is an American, every bit as much as our Founders. Our country is stronger because of our history as a people of diverse backgrounds with diverse experiences. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today, the grandson and great-grandson of immigrants who fled the persecution of Jews in Russia a century ago to build a better life in America for themselves and their future generations. We have seen from history what happens when good people stay silent. To quote the late Elie Wiesel: ``We must take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.'' I urge my colleagues: Do not remain silent. Speak out and defend the values we all share as Americans. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Members are reminded to refrain from engaging in personalities toward the President. ____________________
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