Remarks of Congressman Pete Sessions
In commemoration of 2-28, a group of WUFIers and TAA members in the
Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex area contacted many political leaders urging
the latter to recognize February 28 as Taiwan Peace Day. As a result,
the following remarks on the February 28 Incident were made by Congressman Pete Sessions
on February 25, 1997 in the U.S. Congress and have been included in the congressional record.
REMARKS OF THE HONARABLE PETE SESSIONS
REPRESENTATIVE OF THE 5TH DISTRICT OF TEXAS
ON THE OCCASION OF TAIWANESE CELEBRATION OF
FEBRUARY 28,1947
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker:
The date February 28, 1947 is etched into the hearts and minds of the
Taiwanese peop1e. It was a day in which thousands of Taiwanese gave
their lives fighting for freedom and democracy. February 28, 1997, the
fiftieth anniversary of this day, is one that should be honored here in the
United State because we share with Taiwan a common quest for freedom
and democracy.
Fifty years ago to the day on February 28, 1947, thousands of Taiwanese
began the long, historic struggle for a democratic Taiwan. Since that time,
Taiwan has made tremendous political, economic and social progress
toward a democratic and representative government. Taiwan successfully
and peaceful1y elected their first president by a direct popular vote in
March 1996, despite China’s missile exercise threat.
Taiwan's progress toward democratic rule is matched only by its
extraordinary economic success Today, Taiwan rank 6th in trade with the
great state of Texas. We can attribute this economic accomp1ishment to
Taiwan's dedication to the principals of democracy and capitalism.
Mr. Speaker, a democratic Taiwan contribute to the stability and prosperity
of the Asia-Pacific region. This day is recognized as an important date in
Taiwan's historic evolution to full democracy. It should be spent as a day of
healing, reconciliation and unity among Taiwanese people all over the
world. I hope we take the time to recognize the Taiwanese people and
congratulate them on both their struggle and their success.
The February 28 Holocaust