mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CELEBRATING CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Steven Horsford (Democrat, NV) \u2014 2023-6-5

I thank the gentleman, Congressman Jackson from Illinois, and Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick for their leadership and for co-chairing tonight's Special Order hour. prgtoken , I rise today with my colleagues of the Congressional Black Caucus in commemoration of Caribbean Heritage Month. prgtoken As we mark the 17th anniversary of Caribbean Heritage Month, I pay special thanks to Congresswoman Barbara Lee who led the effort in Congress to designate the month of June as Caribbean Heritage Month to make sure that we always honor the rich history and contributions of Caribbean Americans. prgtoken As a point of personal pride, I am a son and a grandson of Caribbean immigrants. My mother and grandmother came to the United States from Trinidad and Tobago, and for me to now serve in this body to be able to represent the needs of my constituents and those of Caribbean heritage gives me great pride. prgtoken It also reminds me of the great contributions, the curried chicken, the hot pepper sauce, the pelau, and so many other wonderful dishes that I have experienced growing up in my own household based on my Caribbean heritage, and the fact that Caribbean people contribute so much and have contributed so much to the foundation of this country and its success. prgtoken This month, we are proud to recognize the millions of Caribbean Americans around our Nation who contribute every day to the fabric of our society in the arts, sciences, business, in sports, education, government, and those who serve in our military. prgtoken Those who have made our country better with their gifts and their service like our very own Vice President , others like W.E.B. Du Bois, Secretary of State Colin Powell, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Grace Jones, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Marcus Garvey, Usain Bolt, Sidney Poitier, and Harry Belafonte to name just a few. prgtoken The Congressional Black Caucus--the conscience of the Congress--has been home to many Caribbean-American trailblazers since our founding in 1971. One of these trailblazers is Shirley Chisholm, a Caribbean American and founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus who became the first Black woman to be elected to the U.S. Congress and the first woman and African American to seek the nomination for President of the United States from one of our two major political parties. prgtoken Many of our Members of Congress today are of Caribbean descent, including Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, Delegate Stacey Plaskett, and our Special Order co-chair, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. prgtoken Now, more than 50 years after our founding, our Members have continued to shape consequential legislation from voting rights to civil rights, fair housing, and so much more, carrying on the tradition of Shirley Chisholm, who sought to make America live up to its promise that all are created equal, to challenge the idea of what
MIDDLE MARKET IPO COST ACT
Brad Sherman (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-6-5

I think the gentleman from Connecticut said it well: Costs should be coming down because technology is available, yet they seem exactly stuck at a noncompetitive 7 percent. Our investors in companies need more robust competition and fairer underwriting practices. This bill would shed light on these practices and help us strengthen competition in underwriting services for our smaller and medium-sized companies. prgtoken , I urge my colleagues to support this bill, which passed, I believe, on a voice vote in our committee. I know of no opposition. prgtoken , .
AUTHORIZING THE USE OF CAPITOL GROUNDS FOR GREATER WASHINGTON SOAP BOX DERBY
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-6-5

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , today we are considering H. Con. Res. 43, to authorize the use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby. prgtoken , I thank Representative Hoyer for introducing this resolution. The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby is an annual competitive event that encourages children, ages 9 through 16, to construct and race their own soapbox vehicles on the Capitol Grounds. prgtoken This event has become a great tradition in the District of Columbia metropolitan area over the last few decades. It provides a terrific opportunity for children to appreciate the work necessary to build the vehicles and enjoy the thrill of competition. prgtoken The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby organizers will work with the Architect of the Capitol and the Capitol Police to ensure the appropriate rules and regulations are in place and that the event remains free to the public. prgtoken , I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, and .
CELEBRATING CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-6-5

as we recognize Caribbean American Heritage Month, I rise today to express my strong support for the Haiti Criminal Collusion Transparency Act. This bipartisan and bicameral legislation is an important step in holding accountable those who have fueled violence in Haiti, and it sends a clear message that America and Americans stand with the Haitian people. prgtoken This bill, which I am proud to cosponsor with several of my colleagues on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, would ensure the Secretary of State sanctions Haiti's economic and political elites who regularly use gangs as levers of power. This legislative body would receive regular reports on the nature of the relationship between Haiti's corrupt elite and the heinous gangs that they have colluded with. prgtoken Recent headlines underscore just how grim the situation in Haiti has grown. As a result of the worsening gang violence, Haitians are now taking matters into their own hands. Many have turned to vigilante justice, using makeshift weapons to root out suspected gang members. At least 160 suspected gang members were killed between April 24 and May 24. prgtoken This is by no means a viable or a safe long-term solution to gang violence. Vigilante justice leaves open the potential for innocent individuals to be wrongfully characterized as criminals. Haiti's government must be equipped to deal with this reign of terror on its own, without depending on its citizens to take up arms. prgtoken The Haiti Criminal Collusion Act, which has been endorsed by the National Haitian American Elected Officials Network here in the United States, is a desperately needed legislative solution that can assist our brothers and sisters in Haiti. prgtoken By shining a spotlight on bad actors imposing sanctions on the worst offenders, the United States is sending a clear signal that it will not tolerate individuals who exploit their positions of power for personal gain, and that they will not tolerate individuals who terrorize the Haitian people. prgtoken As we begin Caribbean American Heritage Month, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation.
HONORING MARIA EDUARDO AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH
Darren Soto (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-6-5

on May 26, 2023, I recognized Maria Eduardo as a distinguished leader in Central Florida for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Maria Eduardo has been a clinical laboratory scientist (CLS) and AAPI manager for almost a decade in the Veterans Health System. She is a community leader known for her advocacy work in promoting diversity and inclusion. She has been instrumental in creating and implementing the Asian Pacific Island Heritage program in her community. prgtoken Born and raised in the Philippines, Maria Eduardo developed a deep appreciation for her country's rich culture and history. Her passion for cultural awareness led her to pursue her master's degree so she could share her knowledge and experiences with others. prgtoken Maria Eduardo's interest in the APIH program was sparked by the lack of representation and recognition for the Asian Pacific Islander community in her workplace. She recognized that many of her colleagues from these communities faced discrimination and marginalization due to the lack of understanding and awareness of their cultures. prgtoken In response, Maria Eduardo spearheaded the creation of the APIH program, which aims to promote understanding and appreciation of the contributions and experiences of the Asian Pacific Islander community. The program includes educational activities, cultural events, and community outreach efforts. As the founder of the Philippines Association of Medical Technologists, Florida Chapter, she is focused on their recruitment program helping fellow CLS's find job opportunities in the United States. prgtoken Under Maria Eduardo's leadership, the APIH program has made a significant impact on the community. It has helped raise awareness of the rich cultural heritage of Asian Pacific Islanders and has provided a platform for members of these communities to share their stories and experiences. prgtoken Maria Eduardo's dedication to promoting cultural diversity and inclusion has earned her numerous awards and recognition. She is a sought-after speaker on topics related to cultural awareness and has inspired many others to follow in her footsteps. prgtoken Through her work with the APIH program, Maria Eduardo has demonstrated the power of education and community involvement in creating a more inclusive and understanding society. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to all those who strive to promote cultural awareness and acceptance.
CELEBRATING CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Jonathan L. Jackson (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-6-5

such time as I may consume. prgtoken It is with great honor that I rise today to coanchor this CBC Special Order hour along with my distinguished colleague, Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. prgtoken For the next 60 minutes, members of the CBC will spotlight Caribbean American Heritage Month, a celebration of the significant impact Caribbean Americans have made in shaping our Nation. prgtoken This occasion isn't just important to the CBC, Congress, and our constituents. It resonates deeply with all Americans. prgtoken It is time to appreciate the enduring spirit of Caribbean Americans, whose influence spans across arts, sciences, politics, and entrepreneurship. We aim to heighten cultural awareness, honor the diverse Caribbean cultures, and acknowledge their ongoing contributions. prgtoken Ultimately, Caribbean American Heritage Month reflects a vital piece of the American narrative that deserves recognition and understanding for all citizens. prgtoken , from Nevada (Mr. Horsford), the chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.
NATIONAL SENIOR INVESTOR INITIATIVE ACT OF 2023
Josh Gottheimer (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-6-5

I rise in support of my bipartisan bill, the Senior Security Act, to help protect vulnerable seniors who are being targeted by fraudsters who seek to take financial advantage of them. prgtoken I first thank my colleague, Congresswoman Ann Wagner, for her friendship and her leadership. I am very grateful for her continued fight to have the backs of our seniors. prgtoken , I also thank Senators Sinema and Collins, who have introduced the companion legislation to the Senior Security Act in the United States Senate. prgtoken This legislation builds on Congresswoman Wagner's and my previous prgtoken work this Congress when we advanced the Financial Exploitation Prevention Act that would give asset managers more tools to prevent suspected financial exploitation of seniors and vulnerable adults. prgtoken Since I took office, I have been committed to helping seniors save their hard-earned money for retirement, help cut their taxes, afford prescription drugs, and protect Social Security and Medicare so that, at the end of the day, they can afford to stay where I live in northern New Jersey and enjoy their lives with their friends, children, and grandchildren. prgtoken Unfortunately, far too many of our seniors have had their hard-earned retirement savings stolen right out from under them when a scammer calls or shows up at their door. Millions of seniors across the country, including my own late mother, have been the victims of financial scams, and far too many have been cheated out of their retirement savings. prgtoken It is appalling. It is offensive. It is simply unacceptable. These senior scams cost older Americans more than $36 billion a year, often hitting their retirement nest eggs, not to mention the pain and anxiety you can't put a dollar figure on. Plus, senior scams have more than doubled since 2020. prgtoken We are here today to do something about it by advancing the Senior Security Act to help protect American seniors from these shameless criminals. prgtoken This bipartisan bill would create a senior investor task force at the Securities and Exchange Commission that will exclusively focus on how seniors are being targeted by fraudsters who seek to take financial advantage of them. prgtoken Every 2 years, the task force will be required to submit a report to Congress outlining trends and innovations, like robocalls and voice spoofing, that are impacting senior investors, helping us stay ahead of changes in financial scams as they arise. prgtoken Everyone should know they are incredibly sophisticated now. Literally through AI and other spoofing, it sounds like someone's grandchild calling when they scam them. prgtoken The task force will give law enforcement stronger tools and information. The task force will coordinate with other Federal regulators, State regulators, and law enforcement to ensure we are doing as much as we can at every level of government to stop hucksters from scamming our seniors
WALSTONBURG BEST OF SMALL-TOWN AMERICA
Donald G. Davis (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2023-6-5

Walstonburg, North Carolina, a town of 208 residents in my district, is a shining example of the best of small-town USA. prgtoken This past weekend, the Walstonburg American Legion Post 332 hosted the town's 15th annual Proud to be an American Day, a way this tight- knit community uplifts and honors our country's veterans, Active Duty servicemembers, and fallen military members. prgtoken This Proud to be an American Day was the first, however, without the late former Representative Walter B. Jones, Jr and everyone missed his presence. prgtoken , this community proves making a difference doesn't require size, only passion.
HONORING MUJERES LATINAS EN ACCION ON 50 YEARS OF SERVICE
Jesús G. "Chuy" García (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-6-5

today, I rise to honor Mujeres Latinas en Accion on their 50th anniversary of serving and empowering Latinas and their families in Chicago. prgtoken When it was founded in 1973 to offer support to domestic violence survivors, there were no other services like this for Spanish-speaking women in Chicago. Today, Mujeres Latinas en Accion helps women find pathways to safer and healthier lives by providing wraparound, bilingual, and culturally sensitive domestic violence and sexual assault services, including a 24-hour hotline for crisis counseling and advocacy efforts. prgtoken However, the support does not stop there. Their program, Empresarias del Futuro, trains women interested in starting and expanding small businesses. By obtaining financial independence, they can break the cycle of codependency from their abusers. prgtoken Mujeres Latinas en Accion is a force of change. I congratulate and thank them for serving our community with compassion, care, and courage these past 50 years.
SPEAKER McCARTHY STRENGTHENS AMERICA
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-6-5

America is stronger with Kevin McCarthy as of the House. prgtoken Matthew Continetti, the founding editor of the Washington Free Beacon, wrote in the Friday edition: ``Since becoming in January, McCarthy has faced a test. Could he strike a fiscal bargain with President that would earn support and avoid a breach of the debt ceiling and a government shutdown? Well, the grade is in. He aced the exam. . . . Kevin McCarthy is shaping up to be the most effective House GOP leader in decades. . . . Kevin McCarthy is the rare who both understands and is satisfied by the role that he has been given and the responsibilities it entails. He wants nothing more nor less, and he is winning.'' prgtoken In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism continues, moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America with open borders.
HONORING COLONEL EDMUND "BEAU" MASON RIELY
Michael Lawler (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-6-5

having just honored many fallen veterans at ceremonies across the 17th Congressional District for Memorial Day last week, I rise today to recognize the life of a truly exceptional man, Colonel Edmund ``Beau'' Mason Riely. prgtoken Beau was a man whose dedication to service, family, and faith has left a legacy that will endure far beyond his years. prgtoken Born in Fort Bragg and raised in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, Beau was a beacon of strength and leadership from his youth, whether on the football field or in the ROTC program at Georgetown University. prgtoken As a distinguished officer in the 82nd Airborne Division, a graduate from the U.S. Army Ranger School, a battalion commander at Fort Benning, and a faculty member at the National War College, Beau exemplified the very best of our Nation's values. prgtoken Beau had a propensity for praising others and was reticent to accept credit for his accolades. In Beau's eyes, there was always something greater than himself: his faith, his family, and his commitment to service. prgtoken A loving father, he spent much of his time with his beloved wife, Renie, his cherished children, coaching their sports teams, helping with Scouts, and teaching Sunday school. prgtoken He was a husband, a father, a beloved son of Ed and Patricia, and a brother whose love radiated to those around him, leaving a profound impact. prgtoken Beau will be missed by all, those whose lives he touched and by a grateful Nation that he served.
CONGRATULATING JEWEL WICKS OF INVERNESS, MONTANA FOR HER COMMISSION AS AN ENSIGN IN THE U.S. NAVY
Matthew M. Rosendale, Sr. (Republican, MT) \u2014 2023-6-5

each year, countless Montanans answer the call to service and join the ranks of our military. Nearly ten percent of Montanans are veterans, and the Treasure State has a long tradition of protecting our country. prgtoken Even in the small towns that dot Montana's Hi-Line, there is no shortage of servicemembers eager to defend our nation. Today I'm proud to announce that my good friend Jewel Wicks of Inverness, Montana is carrying on this tradition and has just been commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy. prgtoken Jewel graduated from North Star Highschool in neighboring Rudyard before attending the University of Montana in Missoula. After graduating Cum Laude with a major in Psychology and a double minor in International Relations and Global Public Health, Jewel began to consider a career in public service. Jewel's impressive background could launch her into plenty of interesting opportunities, and I'm pleased that she decided on an exciting career with the U.S. Navy and joined their Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. prgtoken Jewel made all of Montana proud this spring, graduating with honors and earning her first commission as an ensign. Jewel's impressive career is a testament to herself, her family, and the entire state of Montana. I will follow her naval career with great interest as she pursues this thrilling new chapter of her life. I want to thank Jewel for her service to this country and it is my privilege to recognize her amazing accomplishments in the U.S. House of Representatives.
RECOGNIZING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF RUN BABY RUN 5K
Mike Rogers (Republican, AL) \u2014 2023-6-5

I rise today to recognize the 10th anniversary of the Run Baby Run 5K in Oxford, Alabama. prgtoken On, August 26, 2023, volunteers and participants will gather for the 10th Annual Run Baby Run 5k at Choccolocco Park in Oxford, Alabama. This event is sponsored by Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center's (NEARMC) Obstetrical Unit. prgtoken This event began in 2013 as a dream of Shelley Parris's, a postpartum nurse at NEARMC. As the only hospital that services pregnant women for east Alabama, she saw a need in her community. Since the first Run Baby Run 5k in 2013, over $10,000 has been raised to assist families as they prepare for parenthood. Items provided include: Infant stethoscopes, oxygen blenders, prenatal class digital curriculum, Mamaroo Multi- Motion Baby Swings for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) Nursery with infant inserts, OB Education Conference, NAS Recliners for parents and cuddlers, and Bereavement Services Moses Baskets. This community project has brought 21st century care to a rural community. prgtoken Mrs. Parris is an example of some of the long-time serving nurses that have given their lives to serve those in Calhoun County and in the surrounding areas, and this project is much more than a fun run to these nurses and the families receiving its benefits. Run Baby Run is unlike any other 5k, as all are welcome to participate, from pregnant mothers to fathers pushing strollers and wagons with toddlers to baby- wearing parents, the community has been supportive and involved. prgtoken , please join me in recognizing the 10th anniversary of this project and congratulating Mrs. Parris on making her vision come to life to help families as they continue to grow and make a significant contribution to the area.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM BROWN
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2023-6-5

I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Jim Brown, one of the greatest football players of all time and considered by many to be the greatest lacrosse player of all time. prgtoken Born on St. Simons Island, Georgia, Mr. Brown was a powerhouse both on and off the field, bringing the Cleveland Browns three league championship games while also advocating for civil rights. prgtoken He spoke out against violence, encouraged young African Americans to get involved in community work, founded the Amer-I-Can Foundation for Social Change to help inner-city youth, and promoted economic opportunities for minority-owned businesses. prgtoken In his professional career, Mr. Brown was a Pro Bowl invitee every single season he played and the NFL's most valuable player three times. He carried the ball over 2,000 times for over 12,000 rushing yards, scoring 106 touchdowns. At the time of his retirement, those were all records. To date, he is still the only NFL player in history to average over 100 rushing yards each game he played in. prgtoken Mr. Brown's tenacity and dedication throughout all that he did on and off the field should serve as an example for all of us. We mourn the loss of Jim Brown, and I offer my sincere thoughts and prayers to his family.