February 12, 2020 - Issue: Vol. 166, No. 29 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 2nd Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E173]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING LITHUANIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 12, 2020

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to take this 
moment to recognize Lithuanian Independence Day. The Lithuanian 
American Community, Inc., East Chicago Chapter, will be commemorating 
this special occasion with a celebratory event on Sunday, February 16, 
2020, at the Chesterton Moose Lodge 1623 in Chesterton, Indiana.
   On February 16, 1918, an Act of Independence was signed by the 
Council of Lithuania, which gave the country its independence from 
Germany. This day is proudly celebrated as State Independence Day. 
Lithuania maintained its independence until 1940 when it was annexed by 
Russia. The country remained under Soviet rule for almost fifty years 
before regaining its freedom in 1990. Independence Restoration Day is 
celebrated on March 11 each year in honor of Lithuania's reestablished 
independence. Lithuanians in Northwest Indiana and all over the world 
celebrate these days of independence with great enthusiasm and pride.
   The members and leaders of the Lithuanian American Community, Inc., 
East Chicago Chapter, are to be honored, not only for their commitment 
to preserving tradition, but also for their dedication to civic, 
cultural, educational, and social programs. For their significant 
contributions to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, the 
members and leaders of the Lithuanian American Community, Inc., East 
Chicago Chapter, are worthy of the highest praise.
   Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to 
join me in celebrating Lithuanian Independence Day and honoring the 
members and leaders of the Lithuanian American Community, Inc., East 
Chicago Chapter, for their loyalty and dedication to their culture and 
traditions. The Lithuanian community has played a key role in enriching 
the quality of life and diversity of Northwest Indiana, and we are 
truly grateful for the organization's service to Northwest Indiana and 
beyond.

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