Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement on Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day:

“Today I am delighted to mark the anniversary of the creation of the State of Israel, known as Yom Ha’atzmaut, a day on which we celebrate its establishment and growth, and recognize the fortitude of the Israeli people.

“For 67 years, Israel has stood as a shining example of freedom and democracy in a region plagued by violence and oppression.  Since President Harry S. Truman famously recognized the nascent state only 11 minutes after its founding, our two nations have shared the common bonds of democracy, economic vitality, and cultural affinity, tied together in an unbreakable friendship based on religious kinships and mutual interests.

“As a Member of Congress, I have been honored to travel to Israel 15 times and never cease to be impressed by the strength of Israel and its people.  I will continue to do all that I can in Congress to ensure that Israelis have a secure and peaceful homeland.  It is my sincere hope that through diplomatic efforts the future will bring a fair solution that enables both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and prosperity.   I wish the people and government of Israel a Chag Sameach, a happy holiday.”

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) introduced a resolution to establish June as “National Men’s Cancer Awareness Month.” (Please find attached a copy of the resolution):

“One in two men will be diagnosed with cancer over the course of their lifetime, compared to one in three for their female counterparts.  These cancers can often be prevented entirely or improved with early detection. Thus, I am introducing this resolution to establish June as Men’s Cancer Awareness Month.  Its purpose is to heighten the awareness of preventable diseases and encourage early detection and treatment of cancer among men.

“The Men’s Cancer Awareness month campaign has gained momentum in states and cities across our nation.  Joel Grisham, a constituent from my district, launched Not 1 Forgotten in 2013, to bring attention to men’s cancer awareness after losing two close friends to cancer.  Through his efforts, Men’s Cancer Awareness Month is currently  recognized in Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Augusta, Chicago, Miami Dade County, New York, Miramar, Los Angeles, Houston and many other cities.”

“Designating June as National Men’s Cancer Awareness Month will help to recognize the disparities that exist in the development of cancer in men.  Furthermore, the establishment of June as “National Men’s Cancer Awareness Month” will cost nothing.  However, its impact will hopefully pay great dividends by indentifying cancer at an earlier stage, slowing the rate of cancer related fatalities, celebrating the lives of men currently living with cancer, and eliminating the taboo associated with many male cancers.”

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.