Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5497, the BURMA Act, which would provide badly needed resources to civil society actors in Burma and impose sanctions on the Burmese military for upending years of progress, democracy, and human rights for a self-serving and brutal agenda of repression and violence. Having visited Burma, I have seen the strength of its people as they have struggled to create and sustain democracy. Now, under the authoritarian Tatmadaw, the divisions, prejudices, and violence have been exacerbated and progress has been reversed. The Rohingya and other vulnerable populations continue to be displaced and assaulted. Journalists are purposely targeted for harassment and violence. The political opposition has faced unspeakable violence and imprisonment. We must commit to holding those responsible for the collapse of democracy and human rights to account, and we must support those that are working in dangerous circumstances to reestablish the rule of law. As we continue to work against global authoritarianism and for democracy and human rights around the world, let us stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Burma and their struggle for freedom. ____________________”