G. K. Butterfield: “I join my colleagues in consideration of H. Con. Res. 281, which celebrates the birth of Abraham Lincoln and recognizes…”

“I join my colleagues in consideration of H. Con. Res. 281, which celebrates the birth of Abraham Lincoln and recognizes the prominence the Declaration of Independence played in the development of Lincoln's beliefs. H. Con. Res. 281 enjoys the support and cosponsorship of 54 Members of Congress and was introduced by Representative Donald Manzullo of Illinois on January 23, 2008. A similar measure, Mr. Speaker, S. Con. Res. 65, has been sponsored by our friend, Senator Richard Durbin. As we honor Abraham Lincoln, it is important to note that the United States Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission was established by this Congress in 2000 to plan the national observance of the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth in 2009. The mission of the commission is to commemorate the 200th birthday of Abraham Lincoln, emphasizing the contribution of his thoughts and his ideals to America and to the world and serving as a catalyst for strengthening freedom, democracy, and equal opportunity for all.”