Benjamin Gilman: “I rise in strong support of House Resolution 323, now being considered under suspension of the rules. This resolution…”

“I rise in strong support of House Resolution 323, now being considered under suspension of the rules. This resolution expresses the sense of the House regarding the treatment of a claim for reparations by a U.S. citizen by the Federal Republic of Germany. Mr. Hugo Princz was an American Jewish citizen living with his family in Czechoslovakia when World War II broke out. His family was arrested, and except for Mr. Princz, all of them perished in concentration camps. Mr. Princz was liberated by American soldiers and applied for reparations from Germany after returning to the United States. These reparations were denied because he was an American citizen and therefore considered ineligible for refugee or stateless status. Mr. Speaker, German Prime Minister Helmut Kohl will meet with President Clinton on Monday, January 31. Adoption of this legislation on the eve of his visit is an important indicator of congressional intent and support. As a cosponsor of this measure I believe the Federal Republic of Germany should fulfill its obligation to right the injustices endured by Mr. Princz.”