We the People - The Citizen and Constitution

WE THE PEOPLE-THE CITIZEN AND CONSTITUTION -- (House of Representatives - April 28, 2004)

Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to address the House for 1 minute.

The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Bishop of Utah). Without objection, the gentleman is recognized for 1 minute.

There was no objection.

Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, the future of our country is rooted in respect for, and understanding of, the United States Constitution. On May 1, more than 1,200 students from across the United States will gather in Washington, D.C. to compete in the national finals of the We the People, the Citizen and the Constitution competition. This outstanding program is the most extensive educational program in the country developed specifically to educate young people about the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

I am pleased that 40 students from Grant High School in Portland, Oregon, will be representing our State. These scholars have worked diligently to reach the national finals, gaining a deep knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles and values of our constitutional democracy. Grant High School, my neighborhood school, has won twice in the last 4 years.

As we celebrate these young scholars, we should keep in mind that it would not be possible without the dedicated teachers led by Diane Thelen-Sager and their advisers led by Jim Westwood. I wish these young constitutional experts the best of luck at the We the People national finals. They truly represent the future leaders of our Nation.

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