Mr. President. we have just concluded discussion on the Foreign Aid Appropriations Act. One of the features of that bill was a substantial appropriation for assistance to refugees and escapees from Communist persecution overseas. Included also was a substantial appropriation to assist in meeting the problems created by the arrival in this country of refugees from Cuba. In providing for both of these activities. the Congress reflects the genuine concern which occupies the hearts and minds of all Americans for these troubled peoples. It acknowledges the extremely valuable leadership and service rendered by the many voluntary agencies which are the real muscle of any effort to assist refugees. The recent heavy influx of Chinese refugees into Hong Kong drew vast public attention to the problem of a bewildered people in that sensitive corner of the world. Equally dramatic and. of course. much closer to home. has been the influx of refugees from communism xight here in this country. I refer. of course. to the Cuban refugees concentrated in Florida whose people. and particularly the citizens of Dade County. have reacted magnificently in receiving the refugees and adjusting to the problems any such arrival will necessarily create. Great effort is now being made to resettle these Cuban refugees elsewhere in this country. Congress is on the eve of its adjournment. Before we leave it here it would be well for each of us to make note of this resettlement effort. for when we return to our respective States it is possible that we can encourage citizen .groups to prepare and organize a resettlement effort. It has been my feelIng that resettlement of Cuban refugees throughout the United States offers the best approach. It gives these people effective asylum and the opportunity to live reasonably normal and productive lives. As a Senator from Michigan.
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refugees