Recognizing the 100th Anniversary of the Iranian Constitutional Revolution

RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE IRANIAN CONSTITUTIONAL REVOLUTION -- (Extensions of Remarks - July 28, 2006)

SPEECH OF HON. EARL BLUMENAUER OF OREGON IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
FRIDAY, JULY 28, 2006

* Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, next month marks the 100th anniversary of the Iranian Constitutional Revolution, a pivotal event in Persian and Middle Eastern history. In the face of a corrupt and authoritarian monarchy, and in order to defend Persian interests against British and Russian imperialism, the Persian people rose up and forced the creation of a parliament and the adoption of a constitution containing basic democratic rights for the first time in Iranian history.

* To mark these events, I will be introducing a resolution recognizing and honoring the 100th anniversary of the Iranian Constitutional Revolution, which I have drafted with the support of leading members of the Iranian-American community and the input of preeminent scholars of modern Iranian history.

* At a time when the United States faces very serious and difficult issues with regards to Iran, this historic event demonstrates that the Iranian people have a long-standing desire for democratic self-government, free from authoritarian rule or foreign interference. I believe that understanding these values common to the Iranian and American peoples, as well as Iran's political history, will help us develop a constructive policy towards Iran. It is also an important sign of support for the Iranian people and our Iranian-American constituents.

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