Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 1350, recognizing June 20, 2010, as World Refugee Day. I thank my colleague, Ms. Watson, for introducing this resolution that reminds us of the importance of protecting those who are vulnerable and finding a home for those who are displaced. The theme of this year's World Refugee Day on June 20, 2010 is ``Home,'' in recognition of the plight of more than 40 million uprooted and displaced people around the world; approximately 10 million of whom are refugees of special concern to UNHCR. As a Member of the Bipartisan Congressional Refugee Caucus, I have continuously stood up for the rights of the world's refugees. Today, there are more than 42 million refugees, including 16 million refugees outside their countries and 26 million others displaced internally. This year, I am especially concerned for the people of Haiti--many of whom are facing the rainy season without a suitable home. According to Refugees International, approximately 700,000 people in Port-au-Prince are without homes or proper shelter and another 600,000 people have left the capital. I also welcome the announcement from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Antonio Guterres, that 100,000 people having been referred for resettlement from the Middle East to third countries since 2007.…”