Speech #1090098634

Mr. Speaker. I rise today in strong opposition to this restrictive rule and the underlying legislation which is nothing more than a xenophobic attack on immigrants who were in search of a better way of life for them and their children. The United States has long been a shining example of inclusion and diversity. Even in some of our darkest days of intolerance. we have always managed to rise above our differences and fuel the flame beneath the worlds melting pot. By resolving these differences. we have cultivated a strong Nation of citizens from around the world. That is why I find it so troubling that some here today are determined to extinguish that flame with socalled immigration reform that does little to address current immigration challenges or make our borders safer. Even worse is the manner by which this legislation is being brought to the floor today. Under the rule. part A. a meager 15 of the 130 amendments that were offered in the Rules Committee are actually made in order. That means that 115 amendments. 115 ideas. 115 voices are all shut out from debate under this rule. and you multiply that by their constituents. Included in these 115 blocked amendments is an amendment offered by my good friend from south Florida which sought to remedy some of the double standard immigration practices that apply to Haitian immigrants. Also blocked from consideration under the rule are the SanchezConyers substitute and the Presidents very own guest worker visa program offered by Representatives KOLBE. BER-