In Honor of Ms. Debra Brown Steinberg
IN HONOR OF MS. DEBRA BROWN STEINBERG -- (Extensions of Remarks - May 18, 2004)
SPEECH OF
HON. JERROLD NADLER
OF NEW YORK
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
TUESDAY, MAY 18, 2004
Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Debra Brown Steinberg on the occasion of her 50th birthday. Ms. Steinberg, a Lead Attorney for 9/11 families and victims, gave of herself for 2 ½ years to help those in need. She worked tirelessly to ensure that 9/11 victims and their families received good legal advice and representation, and provided compassion and human understanding.
Ms. Steinberg is a partner at the New York offices of Cadwalader, Wickersham and Taft located near the site of the World Trade Center. After the attacks, while many New Yorkers became extensions of their television sets and wrote checks to charities, Ms. Steinberg quickly understood how she could best help those whose lives were devastated by this horrific attack. It was clear to her that there would be a need for pro bono legal assistance, especially for the survivors and families of low-income workers whose problems would include immigration, housing, finance, language, education and job training.
The challenges to these families, many of whom were neither citizens nor legal aliens, were overwhelming. Ms. Steinberg responded by organizing and training lawyers and law students, working with nonprofit organizations and unions to learn the challenges and suggest solutions, meeting with elected officials and government agencies to explore ways to overcome bureaucratic obstacles. Moreover, she shared her knowledge and motivated others to volunteer their time and expertise.
Ms. Steinberg has earned the respect, admiration and affection of colleagues, friends and those she shepherded through these most difficult times. Her efforts have inspired those around her and enabled the partners and families of those killed on September 11 to begin to plan for their futures.
All of us in New York, as well as all Americans, have a special place in our hearts for people whose selfless acts make this a better world. Debra Steinberg is one of those very special people and I am proud to know her.
For her commitment to her community, her State, and this Country, it is my privilege to wish Ms. Steinberg a very happy 50th birthday.