Donald M. Payne: “8 years ago, a devastating earthquake in Haiti killed hundreds of thousands of people. Still today, our neighbor is…”

“8 years ago, a devastating earthquake in Haiti killed hundreds of thousands of people. Still today, our neighbor is suffering from the remnants of that disaster. But instead of extending American hospitality to Haitians, the President cursed them out, laying bare his racist intention to destroy the fundamental ideals of our immigration policy. Mr. Speaker, the American Dream must remain open to anyone from anywhere who wants to come here for any reason, especially if they are seeking refuge from disease, famine, or oppression, just as generations have come here in our history. The diversity visa program does just that. It helps people-- particularly the African diaspora--achieve the American Dream. We must protect the diversity visa program and not sacrifice ourselves to the false promise of America-first nationalism. Mr. Speaker, we are a nation of inclusion. We are a nation of open- armed freedom for all people, not just Norwegians. The President may speak for the alt-right, but he does not speak for America. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Gianforte). Members are reminded to refrain from engaging in personalities toward the President. ____________________”