Speech #990169658

Mr. Speaker. it is my pleasure today to Inform my colleagues that I. and 12 cosponsors. have Introduced a resolution to designate July 4. 1986. as "National Immigrants Day." America has been a nation of immigrants since the first colonists came here to find a new home of promise on these shores. This July 4 we will relight the flame on the Statue of Liberty in celebration of 100 years of her standing at the door of that promise to welcome all who desired a new beginning. a new opportunity. a new life of freedom and liberty. We are all proud of the contribution which those men and women who left home and heritage have made to the greatness of this country. The Impact of Immigrant Influx on the rapid Industrialization of America around the turn of the century cannot be denied or Ignored. Likewise. the Influence of immigrant workers has been felt In the agribusiness of America. While not all of the immigrants coming to this country seeking a new life have come through the door by which Miss Liberty stands. she is still the symbol of their hopes. their dreams. their aspirations. If you feel a degree of indebtedness to these courageous pioneers. or would just like to honor an important segment of our growth and development as a nation. I would welcome your cosponsorship of this joint resolution. The text of the resolution follows: H.J. REs. 581 Whereas on July 4. 1986. the restored Statue of Liberty will be unveiled at the centennial celebration of the erection and dedication of the Statue: Whereas the Statue of Liberty has been the symbol of freedom. hope. and opportunity for millions of Immigrants over the past 100 years. Whereas the Statue of Liberty serves as a reminder to all that the United States is a Nation of immigrants. a Nation of nations. Whereas Statue of Liberty Is a lasting memorial to the immigrants who have made America great. Whereas millions of immigrants settled throughout the vast territory of the United States. and supported the Ideals of independence and liberty. Whereas the torch held by the Statue of Liberty serves as a beacon of freedom that lives in the soul of every American. and Whereas it Is only fitting that the relightIng of the torch also be a time to honor the immigrants who were welcomed by the burning torch of the Lady of Liberty to a land of freedom where any dream was and is achievable: Now. therefore. be It Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That July 4. 1986. the centennial of the erection and dedication of the Statue of Liberty. is designated as "National Immigrants Day". The President Is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe such day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.