Mr. Chairman. I rise in strong support of this proposal to protect Haitian refugees from a forced return to their homeland where they face violence and persecution. This is not simply a matter of economic deprivation. it is a case of political persecution and a cause for action. Supporters of this legislation do not dispute the fact that Haiti is economically depressed. Its economy is a catastrophe. But President Aristide was not forced from office in a leveraged buyout or a bankruptcy. His democratically elected government was ousted in a violent coup perpetrated by individuals who crave the days of dictatorship. and who repress Haitians committed to democracy with killings. beatings. arrests. surveillance. and intimidation.
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refugees