Joe Crowley: “Mr. Chairman, I rise in firm opposition to the amendment offered by the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Tancredo). When the…”

“Mr. Chairman, I rise in firm opposition to the amendment offered by the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Tancredo). When the United States withdrew from UNESCO in 1984, I believe we did so for the right reasons. Mismanagement and corruption characterized an organization best known for being a forum for American bashing. Today UNESCO is not the same as it was in 1984. This organization is making important contributions in the area of education and science around the world. The U.S. participation in such an organization can only strengthen its ability to carry out the fine work it performs every day. In fact, the United Kingdom, which also withdrew its support from UNESCO in step with the United States in 1984, had returned as a full member of this worthy organization. The recent decision by the Taliban government in Afghanistan to destroy the historical Buddhist statues demonstrates that the preservation and restoration of cultural treasures sometimes cannot be left solely in the hands of national governments. From preserving these statues to preserving Timbuktu, the role of UNESCO is still important today. During a week in which we lost two important seats on the United Nations commissions, it is important we send a message to the international community that the United States is ready and willing to participate whenever it is called to duty.”