Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Peace Corps Reauthorization Act, and I thank Mr. Garamendi for authoring this important bill. This week marks 61 years in which President Kennedy signed the bill creating the Peace Corps into law, with the mission of promoting world peace and friendship. The Peace Corps has fulfilled this vision and has evolved into a vital diplomatic tool for U.S. foreign policy. Since 1961, more than 240,000 Americans have served as Peace Corps volunteers in 143 countries, conducting people-to-people diplomacy and development in partnership with communities in some of the poorest countries of the world. Volunteers work in sectors that include education, agriculture, environment, health, youth, and community economic development. From incorporating agroforestry technologies in Zambia's farming system, to promoting volunteerism in Georgia, there is no doubt about the profound impact that the Peace Corps has had on the world's developing nations. In addition to changing lives of people all over the world, the Peace Corps has also shaped the next generation of American and foreign leaders and changemakers, by fostering cross-cultural immersion and collaboration. After 61 years of success, we think it is time to further strengthen the Peace Corps' global mission by providing additional resources to better the agency and to support its volunteers.…”