Expressing Profound Sorrow Over the Death of Alexander Michel Odeh

Floor Speech

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Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Alexander Odeh and his legacy, as well as remember the tragedy that shocked Orange County and claimed Mr. Odeh's life.

A Palestinian-American and the Southern California Regional Director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), Mr. Odeh spent much of his life working to support Arab-American civil liberties. Mr. Odeh was a published poet and lecturer at Coastline College and California State University, Fullerton. He was known to impart knowledge, compassion, and guidance to his many students.

On October 11, 1985, Mr. Odeh was the victim of a domestic terror attack as he entered the ADC office in Santa Ana. A scholar, activist, husband, and father of three daughters was taken far too soon by an egregious act of domestic violence.

To this day, almost 39 years after the bombing that claimed Mr. Odeh's life, those responsible have yet to face justice. He worked tirelessly to unite Christians, Muslims, and Jews in Southern California. Despite hatred and threat of harm, Mr. Odeh was not deterred and remained steadfast in his efforts to build bridges. He is survived by his wife, Norma Odeh, and his three daughters, Helena, Samya, and Susan.

Mr. Odeh lived a life of strength, perseverance, and dedication. Today, I am introducing a resolution to acknowledge Mr. Odeh's tragic passing and celebrate his impact on our Orange County community. I urge my colleagues to honor Alexander Odeh's memory and legacy by supporting this resolution.

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