Speech #1020007036

Mr. President. for many years. the U.S. Catholic Conference has been both conscience and caretaker in assisting refugees and immigrants around the world. Much of the credit for this goes to the Rev. Msgr. Nicholas DiMarzio. who for the past 6 years has directed USCCs office of Migration and Refugee Assistance. During his time with USCC. "Father Nick" has become a familiar figure in Congress. as he constantly called us to remain true to our heritage by welcoming the immigrant and providing haven for the oppressed. Whether on behalf of hopeful immigrants seeking to make a future in America or fleeing refugees in need of care and protection. Monsignor DiMarzio has had an enduring impact on our Nations immigration laws and policies. Whatever the issue. he always approached it with great authority and knowledge and a big heart. He reminded us of the importance to our country of keeping families together. and assuring that our immigration laws accomplish this goal. He has been relentless in his advocacy of laws and policies which assist those who have been forced to leave their home countries for whatever reason. and are now an undocumented subclass in the United States. His presence and concern was felt not only in Washingtons corridors. but in refugee camps in Thailand. among the oppressed in Cuba and Vietnam. with Salvadorans in Los Angeles. with those from the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe requiring a new home. and the many thousands who benefited from the recent Immigration Legalization Program due to his leadership in the church. During his 6 years directing the Migration and Refugee Services office. Monsignor DiMarzio made a difference between lives of despair and lives of hope and promise for thousands and thousands of immigrants and refugees. He has ably guided our countrys largest private immigrant and refugee assistance agency. and has truly been a priest for all people. I believe it is a fitting tribute to this great man that he now returns to the Newark diocese from which he came. During his 6 years in Washington. he never lost touch with the people there. and I am certain his presence in the diocese has been sorely missed. just as we will miss him here in Congress.