mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Lucy McBath (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2019-9-26

. Madam , I rise today in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Celebrated from September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month is designed to celebrate the history and culture of Americans who have ancestors from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. This observation was first established as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson in 1968 and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to a full monthlong celebration. Within the thirty-day period are many celebrations of independence for Latin American countries. September 15 is the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Furthermore, Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18. prgtoken Whether they came here as immigrants or their family has been here for generations, Hispanic Americans are woven into the fabric of this great nation. No matter when they arrived, these men and women came to America in search of a better life for themselves and their families. Guided by the promise of freedom and the chance to participate in the unique American experiment in democracy, some of these individuals arrived with nothing but the clothes on their back and the hope of a better tomorrow. Motivated by their own goals and aspirations, Hispanic Americans have made their mark in American history, whether it be in sports, fine arts, sciences, or politics. Today, I am pleased to recognize their many contributions to our country's story. Every day, I witness the critical role that these men and women bring to Georgia's Sixth Congressional District. I continue to be impressed with organizations such as the Hispanic Business Center, Candid South, and the Latin American Association. The hard work of these organizations is truly making a difference in our community and improving the lives of all my constituents. prgtoken The Hispanic community in Georgia is vibrant and continues to grow significantly. During Hispanic Heritage Month, I want to focus on what that means for our country. Despite the many contributions to our society, millions of proud immigrants have suffered discrimination at the hands of the administration. I stand alongside Hispanic Americans in rejecting such rhetoric and discrimination. I am proud to stand up and fight for the men and women who have contributed so much to our communities each day in Washington. Hispanic Americans help contribute to what makes this nation remarkable, and I am honored to lift up the voices of those who have selflessly dedicated their lives to building up themselves, their community, and this country. prgtoken Hispanic Americans represent a diversity of experiences and professions--they are farmers, construction workers, teachers, doctors, entrepreneurs, elected officials, and servicemembers in our armed forces. I am struck by the common desire among Hispanic Americans in my district
CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF MINNESOTA COMMUNITY CARE
Betty McCollum (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2019-9-26

. Madam , I rise to recognize Minnesota Community Care's 50th anniversary. With 18 locations in Saint Paul that serve more than 37,000 patients each year, Minnesota Community Care is the largest federally qualified community health center in Minnesota and a leader in innovative, compassionate, community-based care for patients where they live, work and go to school. prgtoken Since 1969, Minnesota Community Care has been serving the health care needs of its patients across Saint Paul in a culturally appropriate way. In 1972, the nonprofit organization was incorporated as West Side Health Center, delivering care to 1900 patients from a clinic in the Neighborhood House community center in the heart of the neighborhood. prgtoken A foundational part of Minnesota Community Care's mission is providing care to our most vulnerable populations, including young people, homeless and uninsured families, and others in need. Its Health Care for the Homeless program began in 1987. In 1992, in collaboration with Ramsey County, it started its HouseCalls homeless prevention program. A year later, working with the St. Paul Public Housing Agency, it established McDonough Homes Clinic--a primary care clinic for public housing residents in the North End neighborhood. prgtoken Minnesota Community Care is a leader in providing affordable dental care, understanding its impact on overall health. In 1978, it started providing dental services and in 2001, West Side Dental Clinic was established. In 2013, with the help from a major Affordable Care Act grant, it expanded its dental care to reach more patients when it opened its new East Side Family Clinic. prgtoken As communities across our state have worked to improve educational achievement, Minnesota Community Care is working to keep students healthy and in school learning by caring for student patients where they are. Through its 10 school-based clinics, youth can access critical medical, mental health, and nutrition services and learn to be advocates for their health. These school-based clinics are a model for improving health and education outcomes at the same time. prgtoken Madam , it was a pleasure to host you during your visit to Saint Paul in May as we met with leaders from Minnesota Community Care and other community health centers. Working to strengthen our community health centers is one of the most effective ways to increase access to affordable health care across our community. Please join me in honoring the 50th anniversary of Minnesota Community Care's dedication to providing quality and affordable health care for all.
CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2020, AND HEALTH EXTENDERS ACT OF 2019-- Resumed
Jacky Rosen (Democrat, NV) \u2014 2019-9-26

on October 1, 2017, the city of Las Vegas experienced a tragedy on an unprecedented scale--a tragedy that has left our community deeply scarred and our city forever changed. prgtoken It was a warm October night. Tens of thousands of people were gathering in town for a music festival. They were there to have fun, to dance, and to be joyous, but that joy was cut short by violence and terror when a lone gunman began to open fire. prgtoken In the 10 minutes that the shooting lasted, over 1,100 rounds were fired. I repeat: 1,100 rounds. There were 58 innocent people murdered and 422 injured. prgtoken Next week marks the second anniversary of that horrific evening--the deadliest mass shooting in American history. Sons, daughters, parents, friends, prgtoken and neighborhoods--each one of them were loved, and they were all taken from us far too soon. prgtoken Countless others were injured in the chaotic frenzy that followed the gunfire. Many will never live the same life they once knew. prgtoken Several victims from that night never received the care they needed, including members of the Nevada's immigrant community, who were too scared--too scared--to seek care for risk of deportation. prgtoken The 1 October shooting forever altered the lives of countless families in Las Vegas and countless families across this country. Many are still grieving and will suffer through pain that no family, no friend, no spouse, or no child should ever have to face, and that empty seat at every Thanksgiving and every holiday table will never be filled. prgtoken Numerous survivors are still working through the effects of this incredible trauma. Put simply, this massacre shook our community to its very core. prgtoken Let me be clear when I tell you today that we were not and we will not be shattered. The bright lights of Las Vegas will continue to shine through the darkness of that day. We are resilient, and we will always be Vegas Strong. prgtoken I stand here today to honor the memory of 58 victims who lost their lives and the hundreds more who were injured and are still fighting to recover. I am here to say that they will never be forgotten. We will be there to stand side by side with them as they continue to overcome the challenges and trauma brought on by the shooting. prgtoken We must also remember that in the face of terror, there were people who made the selfless choice to run toward the gunfire and to help. They were our brave first responders who risked their lives to offer aid. They were everyday citizens who allowed others to escape in their cars. They were law enforcement officers, firefighters, physicians, and cabdrivers. Every member of our community that could came out to help. All of them are heroes, and all of them must be remembered. prgtoken Heroes continue to come forward in the days, weeks, months, and even years now following the shooting, lining up to donate blood, giving financial aid to help support those w
RECOGNIZING RAY O'CANTO
Jim Costa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-9-26

. Madam , I rise today to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month and the countless Hispanic Americans who have contributed so much to the richness and diversity of our Nation. prgtoken Ray O'Canto was an example, but there are so many, many, many examples. prgtoken In my district, again in the San Joaquin Valley of California, the majority of our constituents trace their origin to Hispanic communities. Actually, in California, it goes back to the very origins of the State, about 400 years ago. prgtoken They, in so many different ways, reflect the diversity and the breadth and the width in our community and in our Nation in business, in education, in the military, in labor, in sports; meaningful contributions, working people that make a difference every day giving back. prgtoken The Hispanic community throughout our country reflects the American story, and that is the story, I believe, of the immigrant, immigrants past and immigrants present, all wanting to make a contribution and to live what we call the American Dream. The dream that is held near and dear by everyone throughout the world who admires and appreciates that America is a beacon of light, and certainly it has been for the Hispanic communities. prgtoken There are so many different individuals that I could recognize in my congressional district. I would like to mention a couple of individuals that I think reflect the temerity, the tenaciousness, and the willingness to give back. prgtoken Mr. Aguilera, a first-generation immigrant, worked his way from being homeless to owning his own business. He founded the Merced Soccer Academy, a local nonprofit organization which brings young people together to compete and to learn from one another. Every Monday, he hosts meetings for community members to share in events. prgtoken Another individual that I work with from the California Highway Patrol is Officer Aldo Garcia, also known as ``El Protector''. ``The Protector'' is a community outreach officer that focuses toward the Hispanic community. His emphasis on education, not just law enforcement, has broken down barriers for peace officers and created a more approachable situation. prgtoken There are so many examples: Jose Ramirez, a world champion boxer and an Olympic competitor; Tom Flores, two-time Superbowl championship coach for the Oakland Raiders. The list just goes on and on and on. prgtoken And guess what? All of these individuals and their families reflect immigrant origins coming to live the American Dream. prgtoken Isn't that really what it is all about? I believe so. prgtoken Madam , I urge my colleagues to join me in recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month and the noteworthy accomplishments that Hispanic Americans make throughout our country, serving in our Armed Forces, making the sacrifices that all Americans make. It is what makes our country the great country it is.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Patrick J. Leahy (Democrat, VT) \u2014 2019-9-26

I am pleased that the fiscal year 2020 appropriations bill for the Department of State and Foreign Operations was reported unanimously by the committee earlier today. There is a great deal in the bill that the American people can feel good about, as the summaries released by both the majority and minority indicate. However, as is always the case with bipartisan legislation, there are also things that I wish were not in the bill, and there are things missing from the bill that I wish had been included. I want to speak about one of those. prgtoken I deeply regret that the bill does not even mention the words ``climate change.'' That is remarkable, or perhaps a better word is ``appalling,'' when one considers the existential threat that climate change poses for every living thing on Earth. If were in the majority, funding for programs to combat global warming and adapt to climate change would be a priority in the bill. Instead, it is completely missing. prgtoken An example is the Green Climate Fund, GCF, which was created in 2010 with the active participation of the United States. Its mission is to respond to climate change by investing in low-emission and climate- resilient development. The GCF was established to limit or reduce greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries and to help vulnerable societies adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change. The United States contributed a total of $1 billion in the first 2 years of operation of the GCF. prgtoken Then President was elected. Even though, according to press reports, the Organization had previously cited climate change in its application for a permit to build a barrier to protect a golf course from the rising sea level and increasingly powerful storms, he continues to publicly refuse to recognize climate change as a serious threat. Despite that hypocrisy and overwhelming scientific recognition of the impact of burning fossil fuels on the Earth's climate, the White House withdrew from the Paris climate agreement and opposed further U.S. funding for the GCF. majorities in the Congress fell into line, and in the past two appropriations bills, there has been no funding for a U.S. contribution to the GCF. prgtoken The next replenishment for the GCF is scheduled for 2020. Since there are no funds in the bill just reported by the Appropriations Committee for a U.S. contribution to the GCF, absent an about-face by the White House, the United States will not make a replenishment pledge. It will be left to other countries to ensure that the GCF continues to operate. Once again, U.S. leadership to address what many believe to be the most ominous threat facing the world is nowhere to be seen. prgtoken Despite that inexcusable failure by the White House and the leadership in Congress, it is important to emphasize that overwhelmingly the American people recognize the threat that climate c
TRIBUTE TO CHRIS GASPAR
Dianne Feinstein (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-9-26

today I wish to bid a fond farewell and recognize the excellent service of my longtime foreign affairs and defense policy adviser, Christopher Gaspar. prgtoken Over the past 6 years, Chris has brought expertise, insight, and sage advice across a wide range of defense policy, defense appropriations, and foreign affairs matters that have benefited me directly and, through his service, the Nation. prgtoken I have valued Chris's counsel on contentious issues to include Iran's nuclear program and the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to address it; the Israel-Palestinian conflict; U.S.-China relations; human rights issues in Saudi Arabia, Burma, and Tibet; national security space launch; deteriorating conditions in Central American countries; oversight of the U.S. nuclear arsenal; and U.S. counterterrorism efforts across the globe. prgtoken The people of California largely don't know his name, but have benefited from his dedicated work on numerous National Defense Authorization Acts and Defense Appropriations Acts. He has helped enact numerous provisions into law for the betterment of the State, including securing seven C-130 tankers for California to fight wildfires, making California's the largest wildfire aerial fleet in the country. He has worked with our counties and cities to allow underutilized National Guard facilities to be used to combat California's homelessness crisis. This year, he led a comprehensive effort to investigate and draft reforms to address shameful, substandard contract military housing to meet the needs of our servicemembers and their families a provision that I hope will soon be enacted in this year's defense bill. prgtoken Chris has been by my side for numerous sensitive meetings with foreign leaders, ambassadors, military commanders, corporate chiefs, and local officials, and he has always exhibited a level of professionalism, dedication, and empathy that I deeply admire and appreciate. prgtoken He has also helped California constituents facing issues abroad, served as a valued mentor to junior staff, dedicated himself to liaison relationships with the House of Representatives on coffee meetings, proven himself to be an integral member of my appropriations team, and was always ready with a quip--sometimes humorous--to help lighten the mood. prgtoken Chris is moving on to the private sector----hopefully temporarily-- and will spend some much deserved down-time with his new wife. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors, and my staff and I will deeply miss him. prgtoken Thank you
WOMEN AND MINORITIES IN STEM BOOSTER ACT OF 2019
Mazie K. Hirono (Democrat, HI) \u2014 2019-9-26

studies show that women and underrepresented minorities face substantial barriers to completing educational opportunities and pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Congress and the Federal government should be doing more to help women and underrepresented minorities succeed in these areas, which will strengthen our economy and communities in the long-term. prgtoken For these reasons, I come to the floor today to reintroduce the STEM Opportunities Act of 2019 and the Women and Minorities in STEM Booster Act of 2019, two important bills that would help to broaden participation in STEM and strengthen our nation's STEM pipeline for women and minorities. prgtoken Recent trends indicate that we are not keeping pace with training the scientists and engineers we will need for the 21st century careers of the future. Unfortunately, women and minorities too often ``leak'' out of the STEM pipeline before completing degrees in these critical fields. In order for the United States to remain competitive in our increasingly global economy, we need to make sure opportunities are available for everyone because only when everyone succeeds can we all succeed. prgtoken As members of Congress, we have a responsibility to ensure that our country remains competitive and provides opportunities for all Americans. We have an important role to play in breaking down barriers for women and minorities in STEM and must work to ensure that Federal government agencies, Federal laboratories, institutions of higher education, State and local governments, industry, and nonprofit stakeholders are working collaboratively to support these efforts. prgtoken The STEM Opportunities Act represents a comprehensive approach to improving the severe shortage and lack of diversity in our Nation's STEM pipeline by addressing factors that limit the progression of women and minorities in research environments and implementing research-based practices to improve the recruitment and retention of faculty and students. Specifically, the bill would provide for guidance, data collection, and grants for women and minorities in STEM at institutions of higher education and at federal science agencies to improve access and reduce cultural and institutional barriers that limit diversity in STEM research and careers. prgtoken The Women and Minorities in STEM Booster Act represents a more targeted approach to strengthening the STEM pipeline, by providing for training, outreach, mentoring, and other resources prgtoken for women and minorities in STEM. Specifically, the bill would require the National Science Foundation to award competitive grants to promote activities such as online workshops, mentoring programs, internship opportunities, outreach efforts, and other designed to increase recruitment and retention of women and underrepresented minorities in STEM. It is through these purposeful efforts that we, as a
25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NEW HAMPSHIRE POLICE ASSOCIATION PIPES & DRUMS
Jeanne Shaheen (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2019-9-26

I rise today on behalf of the New Hampshire congressional delegation, Senator Maggie Hassan and Representatives Ann McLane Kuster and Chris Pappas, to salute the New Hampshire Police Association Pipes and Drums on its 25th anniversary. For a quarter century, NHPA Pipes and Drums have brought their distinct sound to memorial services and community events in the Granite State and across the country. They honor their brothers and sisters in uniform with each performance. prgtoken The beginnings of NHPA Pipes and Drums are rooted in tragedy. In October of 1994, Sergeant James Noyes of the New Hampshire State Police SWAT Team responded to a barricaded subject in Gilford, NH. Trained in hostage negotiations, he was trying to dissuade a clearly distraught man from harming himself when the man suddenly opened fire. Sergeant Noyes was struck by a bullet under his arm and succumbed to his injury, leaving behind a wife, daughter, and two sons. prgtoken At his funeral days later, his fellow troopers and law enforcement officers listened to the Boston Police Gaelic Column pay tribute to Sergeant Noyes. Their bagpipes and drums gave expression to their shared grief. A few officers quickly initiated a search for anyone interested in a New Hampshire-based police pipes and drum band. Several individuals from various departments answered the call, and they held their first practice 2 months later. After 2 years of trainings and rehearsals, the New Hampshire Police Association Pipes and Drums gave its maiden performance at the New Hampshire Police Memorial in Concord. prgtoken The band's current roster has honed a difficult craft, and their performances give special meaning to both somber police memorials as well as more cheerful community events. They are frequent marchers in Forth of July and holiday parades around the region. They are mainstays at the New Hampshire Highland Games. They bring their talents to send- offs for Honor Flights, which flies veterans to Washington, DC, at no cost to see war memorials. They have played at Fenway Park, as well as in the Nation's Capital during National Police Week, and at our annual Congressional Law Enforcement Awards, they play a crucial role in our efforts to honor officers who go above and beyond the call of duty. prgtoken On behalf of the people of New Hampshire, we ask our colleagues and all Americans to join us in congratulating NHPA Pipes and Drums on 25 years of service and wishing its pipers and drummers all the best in the coming years.