In Celebration of the American Syrian Arab Cultural Association Annual Banquet

Floor Speech

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Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the American Syrian Arab Cultural Association and celebrate its 2019 Annual Banquet. The association's lasting commitment to supporting our Syrian Arab American community is worthy of commendation.

The American Syrian Arab Cultural Association (ASACA) is a non-profit and non-sectarian cultural and education organization with a mission to ``acquaint the American public with the rich Arabic culture and heritage through the promotion of lectures, educational seminars and cultural events.'' The association aspires to strengthen ties and promote friendly relations by building bridges between Arabic culture and the American community at large. In addition, ASACA tirelessly strives to preserve and instill Arabic language, culture, and heritage within the youth of the Arab community, ensuring it will be shared with generations to come.

ASACA's Annual Banquet exemplifies the association's continued commitment to our Arab American community. This year, the banquet will support Syrian Youth Empowerment (SYE), a non-profit initiative that empowers Syrian youth by providing paths to higher education. Established by a group of Syrian refugees who personally experienced the challenges of pursuing higher education both inside and outside Syria, SYE was created to support students in conflict areas and help them navigate the barriers they encounter throughout the college application process. ASACA's important work alongside SYA will generate a greater awareness for the obstacles many Syrians face due to ongoing conflicts, and ASACA's dedicated efforts with help better support students who wish to obtain their college degrees.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the American Syrian Arab Cultural Association as it hosts its annual banquet. ASACA's commitment to empowering Syrian youth truly changes lives, and I am deeply appreciative of the association's remarkable work.

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