Bob Menendez: “I rise with my colleague and friend, Senator Martinez, in strong support of our resolution to recommend Cuban dissident…”

“I rise with my colleague and friend, Senator Martinez, in strong support of our resolution to recommend Cuban dissident and political prisoner Dr. Oscar Elias Biscet for the Congressional Gold Medal. This medal is the Nation's highest and most distinguished civilian award, and I can think of few who are more deserving than this man. For his courageous commitment to democracy, for his unwavering defense of human rights, for his lifetime of working for peaceful change on an island where freedom dares not speak its name, Dr. Biscet has earned the admiration of his community, and he has earned the recognition of this Congress. Just over 4 months ago, both Senator Martinez and I, along with Senators Nelson and Salazar, stood on this floor and declared our solidarity with about 70 Cuban youths who had just been thrown in jail. Their crime was nothing more than wearing this simple white bracelet that says one word, ``cambio,'' change. This one simple gesture was strong enough to have them held as prisoners.”