Mr. Speaker. America has traditionally been a haven for refugees fleeing political and/or military oppression and never has that been more true than it is today. Not only have we welcomed hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese. Cuban. and other refugees in recent years. but Vietnamese and others fleeing the tyranny of communism keep coming to our shores. Making them welcome and helping them get started in a new land with a different language and customs has not always been easy. but thanks to thousands of Americans who have generously given of themselves and their resources. these refugees have made truly remarkable strides. Many have started businesses. found jobs. built homes. and begun raising families in the true American tradition but with a flair distinctly their own. Still others are seeking to follow in their footsteps with the volunteer assistance of various individuals. civic groups. church congregations and charitable organizations. True. some of these refugees have benefited from governmental programs as well. but the contribution of these volunteer private sector groups cannot be underestimated. Not only is this assistance frequently more immediate and personal. but it has encouraged the selfreliance that is so essential if refugees are to successfully integrate themselves into our society. Thanks to its climate and its location. southern California has attracted more of these refugees than most areas. But rather than view that as a burden. many of those living in that part of the country have chosen to view it as a challenge. Hundreds of inlIviauals and groups have eimeigcu with offers of assistance. Some have taken refugees into their homes and helped them get started. Others. less well equipped with living space. have provided food. clothes. and other supplies. In some cases. entire church congregations have taken responsibility for helping refugees get settled. For example. five congregations of the southern California District of the Lutheran Church. Missouri Synod have undertaken to sponsor Indochinese refugee families in recent years. Those congregations. from the First Luthern Church of Los Angeles. Rev.
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refugee refugees