ACTION ITEM

Rep. Louise McIntosh Slaughter (D-N.Y.) has drafted a "Dear Colleague" letter that has been delivered to every Congressional office. The letter, addressed to Rep. Sonny Callahan (R-Ala.), chairman of the Foreign Operations Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee, urges support for continued assistance to Ukraine. The letter's focus is on the positive changes in Ukraine and lists recent reform efforts in the areas of agriculture, the energy sector and privatization, as well as the struggle to reduce crime and corruption. The letter also reminds congressmen of the importance of a successful strategic partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine.

Since Rep. Callahan has taken a strong, negative stand specifically towards funding for Ukraine, the Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS) urges members of the Ukrainian American community to contact their congressman and encourage their representative to sign on to the "Dear Colleague" letter. Appeals for support can be made by either writing a letter (sample below), or by calling your congressman through (202) 224-3121 - Capitol Information.

The following congressmen have endorsed the letter as of June 10: Reps. Maurice Hinchey (D-N.Y.), Christopher Smith (R-N.J.), David Bonior (D-Mich.), Michael R. McNulty (D-N.Y.), and Sander M. Levin (D-Mich.).

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The following is a brief sample letter:

Representative (name)
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Representative (name):

I urge you to endorse Rep. Louise Slaughter's "Dear Colleague" letter which supports U.S. foreign assistance to Ukraine. To ensure that Ukraine remains on the path of democracy with free-market reform, a commitment of U.S. resources is necessary. To stop assistance to Ukraine is not in the interest of the U.S. and will result in a lack of programs that are necessary to develop a competitive business environment, institute legal reform and build an independent energy sector.

I respectfully suggest that you support the "Dear Colleague" letter. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

- Submitted by the Ukrainian National Information Service

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, June 15, 1997, No. 24, Vol. LXV

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