Political Quotes

“I thank the gentleman from Oregon for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3409. I am glad to have worked with Chairman DeFazio to integrate major provisions from legislation I authored to drive long overdue reforms at the Coast Guard Academy. Our armed services should reflect the diverse fabric of this Nation. Unfortunately, the Coast Guard Academy has struggled to attract and retain a diverse student body and faculty. The absence of diverse voices at the Coast Guard Academy has contributed to what many acknowledge as a hostile environment for cadets and faculty with diverse backgrounds punctuated by hateful incidents. I have engaged with the Commandant regarding conditions at the academy and, to his credit, he is open to change. To that end, H.R. 3409 directs the Commandant to secure the services of outside experts to carry out an independent, top-to-bottom review of conditions at the academy with an eye to issuing recommendations to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. Additionally, the independent body would be directed to assess the academy's admissions processes and consider the potential benefits of congressional nominations to increase diversity. The true test for the Coast Guard will come when recommendations are issued. At that point it will be clear if, as an organization, the Coast Guard is willing to abandon its historically insular ways and embrace real reform.…”