Donald M. Payne: “I rise today, as a member of the Human Rights Subcommittee, to join in commemorating the 181st Anniversary of the…”

“I rise today, as a member of the Human Rights Subcommittee, to join in commemorating the 181st Anniversary of the revolution that freed the Greek people from the Ottoman empire. I congratulate Greece on celebrating its 181st anniversary. The Greek people have much to be proud of. As a senior member of the International Relations Committee, I have long been involved in, and have followed issues affecting the Greek-American community. I am aware that Greece achieved its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1829. During the second half of the 19th century, and the first half of the 20th century, it gradually added neighboring islands and territories with Greek-speaking populations. Following the defeat of communist rebels in 1949, Greece joined NATO in 1952. A military dictatorship, which in 1967 suspended many political liberties and forced the king to flee the country, lasted seven years. Democratic elections in 1974 and a referendum created a parliamentary republic, and abolished the monarchy. Greece joined the European Community or EC is 1981 (which became the EU in 1992). I originally introduced a bill in March 2000, calling for the return of the Parthenon Marbles to their rightful home in Greece. I am re-introducing that same bill tonight. Madam Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Greek people in their celebration of democracy. Once again, congratulations on your 181st anniversary celebration!”