[Page H1714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING STATE REPRESENTATIVE ABDELNASSER RASHID

  (Mr. GARCIA of Illinois asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. GARCIA of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, as we approach the end of Arab 
American Heritage Month, I rise to honor my colleague and friend, State 
Representative Abdelnasser Rashid.
  As the first Muslim elected in the Illinois General Assembly and the 
only Palestinian American to serve, he is not just making history; he 
is crafting it. He didn't step forward for titles or recognition. He 
stepped forward because families and communities like his have waited 
long enough for homegrown leaders who carry their hopes because they 
know their hardships.
  His presence is a testament to perseverance, principle, and the 
strength to stay true to community. Abdelnasser carries the hopes of 
generations on his shoulders. He knows his work is bigger than any one 
person, and he does so with quiet courage, not seeking applause, but 
grounded in the belief that dignity and opportunity are rights, not 
privileges.
  Representative Rashid isn't just honoring his heritage; he is 
building a future.
  Mr. Speaker, today, we are proud to stand with him.

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