Øàíîâí³ àìåðèêàíö³! Ïîòð³áíà ä³ÿ
12/12/2005 | Ñòåïàí Çàºöü
Ïðîïîíóºìî äî óâàãè çàêëèê äî 䳿: çêîíòàêòóâàòèñÿ ç âàøèìè Ïðåäñòàâíèêàìè â Êîíãðåñ³, ùîá Êîíãðåñ îñòàòî÷íî óõâàëèâ ð³øåííÿ ïðî â³äì³íó Àêòó Äæåêîíà Âàí³êà. Äåòàë³ - â ïóíêòàõ (1)-(3)
Ïîäÿêà çà âàøó ó÷àñòü!
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"THE ACTION UKRAINE REPORT - AUR"
An International Newsletter
The Latest, Up-To-Date
In-Depth Ukrainian News, Analysis, and Commentary
"Ukrainian History, Culture, Arts, Business, Religion,
Sports, Government, and Politics, in Ukraine and Around the World"
ACTION ALERT:
JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION
Your support needed now to contact members of the U.S. House
Only one-week left for U.S. House to act this year
Legislative calendar running out of time in 2005
Contact key Congressmen today!
"THE ACTION UKRAINE REPORT - AUR" - Number 615
Mr. E. Morgan Williams, Publisher and Editor
Washington, D.C., MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2005
--------INDEX OF ARTICLES--------
"Major International News Headlines and Articles"
1. ACTION ALERT: JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION
Your support needed now to contact members of the U.S. House
Only one-week left for House to act this year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
ACTION ALERT: Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer & Ambassador William Miller, Co-chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
2. KEY RESOLUTION: H.R. 1053 BY CONGRESSMAN GERLACH
Ukraine's graduation from Jackson-Vanik Amendment
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
3. KEY PERSON: CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS, CHAIRMAN
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Contact Information
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
4. KEY COMMITTEE: HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE
Key subcommittee: Trade Subcommittee
Contact Information
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
5. KEY CONGRESSMAN: CONTACT YOUR OWN
Urge your U.S. Representative to co-sponsor H.R. 1053 now
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
6. KEY MEMBERS: UKRAINIAN CONGRESSIONAL CAUCUS
MEMBERS WHO HAVE NOT YET CO-SPONSORED H.R. 1053
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
7. JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION MEMBERSHIP LIST
Coalition membership now over 230
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
8. SEC OF STATE RICE WRITES CONG CHARLES RANGEL THAT
ADMINISTRATION SUPPORTS UKRAINE'S GRADUATION
FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
Office of the Secretary of State
U.S. Department of State
Washington, D.C., November 8, 2005
9. UKRAINE-UNITED STATES BUSINESS COUNCIL URGES WAYS
AND MEANS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN THOMAS TO LEAD HOUSE
IN GRADUATING UKRAINE FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
NEWS RELEASE: Ukraine-United States Business Council
Washington, D.C., Thursday, December 8, 2005
10. JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION CO-CHAIRMEN'S
LETTER TO CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS
Chairman, U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Letter to Chairman Bill Thomas, R-CA
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Washington, D.C. Wednesday, November 30, 2005
11. CENTRAL AND EAST EUROPEAN COALITION ENDORSES HOUSE
MEASURE TO REVOKE JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT FOR UKRAINE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA)
New York, New York, Friday, December 9, 2005
12. URGENT APPEAL: SUPPORT NEEDED NOW FOR HR1053 BY
REP. JIM GERLACH FOR SUCCESSFUL REPEAL OF THE
JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT FOR UKRAINE BY U.S. HOUSE
UPDATE: Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS)
Washington, D.C., Friday, December 9, 2005
13. "A STEP TOWARD NORMALCY"
COMMENTARY: By Peter Savodnik
Political editor of the Hill newspaper
The Wall Street Journal Online (Europe)
New York, NY, Thursday, September 29, 2005
14. U.S. SENATOR LUGAR PRAISES PASSAGE OF BILL THAT
REPEALS APPLICATION OF JACKSON-VANIK TO UKRAINE
Authorizes extension of permanent normal trade relations
Similar bill now has to pass the U.S. House of Representatives
Office of U.S. Senator Richard Lugar
United States Senate, Washington, D.C.
Friday, November 18, 2005
========================================================
1. ACTION ALERT: JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION
Your support needed now to contact members of the U.S. House
Only one-week left for House to act this year
Contact key Congressmen today!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
KEY ACTION ALERT: Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer & Ambassador William Miller, Co-chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition is strongly
urging the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the legislation necessary
to graduate Ukraine from the Jackson-Vanik amendment before the House
adjourns in one-week for the holidays.
Your support and action is needed immediately regarding this critical
matter as time is extremely short.
The U.S. Senate has already passed such enabling legislation and it is
now time for the U.S. House of Representatives to do the same, before
the end of 2005.
There are currently three resolutions in the House regarding Jackson-
Vanik graduation for Ukraine: [1] H.R. 885, introduced by Congressman
Hyde of Illinois, Chairman of the House Committee on International
Relations; [2] H.R. 1053, introduced by Congressman Gerlach of
Pennsylvania; and [3] H.R. 1170, introduced by Congressman Levin of
Michigan.
(2) KEY RESOLUTION: H.R. 1053 BY CONGRESSMAN GERLACH
While very grateful for the leadership that Congressmen Hyde and Levin
and their co-sponsors have shown on this issue, the Jackson-Vanik
Graduation Coalition recommends supporting H.R. 1053, introduced by
Congressman Gerlach.
It is the Coalition's understanding that the Gerlach bill would have
greatest receptivity in the House Ways and Means Committee. The
Coalition therefore urges those who support Jackson-Vanik graduation
for Ukraine to write (fax) or otherwise contact your Congressman and
urge that he or she co-sponsor H.R. 1053, introduced by Congressman
Gerlach (additional information about H.R. 1053 and the present co-
sponsors of H.R. 1053 are listed in article two below).
(Due to security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress can
be significantly delayed; we therefore recommend that letters be faxed.)
As the Jackson-Vanik Amendment is part of the 1974 Trade Act,
the Committee in the House of Representatives with primary jurisdiction
is the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, chaired by Congressman
Bill Thomas of California.
(3) KEY PERSON: CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS, CHAIRMAN
(4) KEY COMMITTEE: HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE
We therefore recommend that those who wish to write (fax) or otherwise
urge Congress on Jackson-Vanik graduation for Ukraine to immediately
contact Congressman Bill Thomas (contact information for Congressman
Thomas can be found below in article three below) and the other members
of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee (the names of the members
on the Ways and Means Committee and their contact information can be
found below in article four).
(5) KEY CONGRESSMAN: CONTACT YOUR OWN
In addition to contacting the Chairman and the other members of the
U.S. Ways and Means Committee please also contact your own
Congressman about becoming a co-sponsor of H.R. 1053. (Information
about how to identify and contact your Congressman can be found in
article five below.)
(6) KEY MEMBERS: UKRAINIAN CONGRESSIONAL CAUCUS
MEMBERS WHO HAVE NOT YET CO-SPONSORED H.R. 1053
The Coalition is also asking people to contact the members of the
Ukrainian Congressional Caucus who have not yet co-sponsored H.R.
1053. We feel there is a high probability that these Members would,
if contacted by enough people, agree to co-sponsor H.R. 1053,
introduced by Congressman Gerlach.
There are twenty-six members of the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus
but only six of them, Representatives Curt Weldon, Roscoe Bartlett,
Marcy Kaptur, Michael McNulty, Chris Smith and Maurice Hinchey
have presently signed on as co-sponsors of H.R. 1053.
A list of the twenty members of the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus
who have not yet co-sponsored H.R. 1053 can be found below in
article six. Contact information for the members can also be found
in article six.
DRAFT: SAMPLE CONGRESSIONAL LETTER
Monday, December 12, 2005
Dear Representative ---------:
I am writing to ask that you co-sponsor H.R. 1053, introduced by
Congressman Jim Gerlach, to remove Ukraine from the coverage of --
or "graduate" Ukraine from -- the Jackson-Vanik Amendment to the
1974 Trade Act.
The Jackson-Vanik Amendment was passed by Congress to encourage
the Soviet Union to allow open emigration for religious minorities,
particularly Soviet Jews, and to create conditions in which religious
minorities could freely practice their faiths. Jackson-Vanik has
succeeded in independent Ukraine, which has met these conditions,
with a long record of open emigration and religious freedom.
In 1997, President Clinton found Ukraine in full compliance with the
provisions of Jackson-Vanik, and President Bush in April 2004 called
for the immediate ending of the application of Jackson-Vanik to
Ukraine. Last month, the U.S. Senate passed by unanimous consent
legislation to graduate Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik.
Ukraine has done what it was asked to do under Jackson-Vanik, and
Congress should now act accordingly. Graduating Ukraine now is not
just the right thing to do; it would also send an important political
signal of continuing U.S. support to President Victor Yushchenko and
the Ukrainian people, as they strive to realize the promise of the
Orange Revolution and build a better future as a free and prosperous
democracy.
I strongly urge your immediate co-sponsorship of H.R. 1053.
Sincerely,
Your letters should be FAXED to Congress, as current security/screening
requirements can cause a significant delay [up to two weeks or more] in
the delivery of regular mail.
IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED BY ALL UKRAINIAN-AMERICANS
AND FRIENDS OF UKRAINE
The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition needs the immediate strong
support of all of its members and friends to contact members of the
House of Representatives about this matter.
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller and the
other leaders of the Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition urge everyone,
starting on Monday, December 12, to write and fax in their letters
immediately.
Hundreds of letters from Ukrainian-Americans and friends of Ukraine
need to be faxed now to the members of the U.S. House of
Representatives. This is very critical to the success of Ukraine's
graduation from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment yet this week. -30-
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
2. KEY RESOLUTION: H.R. 1053 BY CONGRESSMAN GERLACH
Ukraine's graduation from Jackson-Vanik Amendment
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - There are currently three resolutions in the House
regarding Jackson-Vanik graduation for Ukraine: H.R. 885, introduced
by Congressman Hyde of Illinois, Chairman of the House Committee on
International Relations; H.R. 1053, introduced by Congressman
Gerlach of Pennsylvania; and H.R. 1170, introduced by Congressman
Levin of Michigan.
While very grateful for the leadership that Congressmen Hyde and Levin
and their co-sponsors have shown on this issue, the Jackson-Vanik
Graduation Coalition recommends supporting H.R. 1053, introduced by
Congressman Gerlach.
It is the Coalition's understanding that the Gerlach bill would have
greatest receptivity in the House Ways and Means Committee. The
Coalition therefore urges those who support Jackson-Vanik graduation
for Ukraine to write (fax) or otherwise contact your Congressman and
urge that he or she co-sponsor H.R. 1053, introduced by Congressman
Gerlach.
H.R. 1053 ONLY HAS TWENTY-FOUR CO-SPONSORS NOW
Out of the 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives only
twenty-four have co-sponsored H.R. 1053. Out of the 26 members of
the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus only 6 have co-sponsored
H.R. 1053.
TWENTY-FOUR PRESENT CO-SPONSORS OF H.R. 1053
(1) Rep Andrews, Robert E. [NJ-1]
(2) Rep Bartlett, Roscoe G. [MD-6]
(3) Rep Boehlert, Sherwood [NY-24]
(4) Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5]
(5) Rep Crowley, Joseph [NY-7]
(6) Rep Dent, Charles W. [PA-15]
(7) Rep Diaz-Balart, Lincoln [FL-21]
(8) Rep English, Phil [PA-3]
(9) Rep Fitzpatrick, Michael G. [PA-8]
(10) Rep Harman, Jane [CA-36]
(11) Rep Hinchey, Maurice [NY-22]
(12) Rep Kaptur, Marcy [OH-9]
(13) Rep Kennedy, Mark R. [MN-6]
(14) Rep Langevin, James R. [RI-2]
(15) Rep McNulty, Michael R. [NY-21]
(16) Rep Peterson, John E. [PA-5]
(17) Rep Pitts, Joseph R. [PA-16]
(18) Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19]
(19) Rep Schwarz, John J.H. "Joe" [MI-7]
(20) Rep Shuster, Bill [PA-9]
(21) Rep Smith, Christopher H. [NJ-4]
(22) Rep Snyder, Vic [AR-2]
(23) Rep Weldon, Curt [PA-7]
(24) Rep Wexler, Robert [FL-19]
PLEASE TAKE ACTION NOW
Please take action now to quickly and substantially increase the number
of Members of the House who are co-sponsors of H.R. 1053. This is
very, very important to the success of Ukraine's graduation from the
Jackson-Vanik amendment this week. -30-
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in names and e-mail addresses for the AUR distribution list.
========================================================
3. KEY PERSON: CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS, CHAIRMAN
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Contact Information
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON- Contact information for Congressman Bill Thomas,
Chairman, U.S. House Ways & Means Committee, the key person
regarding Ukraine's graduation from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment.
Rep. William M. Thomas (R-CA)
(22nd District of California)
2208 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Ph. 202-225-2915; FAX: 202-225-8798
Also send letters to the Congressman's district offices in California.
Office of Congressman William M. Thomas
4100 Empire Drive, Suite 150
Bakersfield, California 93309
Ph. 661-327-3611; FAX: 661-637-0867
Office of Congressman William M. Thomas
5805 Capistrano Avenue, Suite C
Atascadero, CA 93422
Ph. 805-461-1034 - North County
Ph. 805-549-0390 - South County
FAX: 805-461-1323
You can also contact Rep. Thomas by going to his website at
http://billthomas.house.gov and submitting an e-mail message in
the Contact Bill section. These messages would go to a Staff
Assistant/Systems Administrator who would forward the message
to the appropriate Legislative Assistant.
WE RECOMMEND THAT LETTERS BE FAXED
Due to tight security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress
can be significantly delayed (up to two weeks or more); we therefore
recommend that letters be faxed.
Please contact Congressman Thomas. This is critical and essential
for Ukraine's graduation from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment this week.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in names and e-mail addresses for the AUR distribution list.
========================================================
4. KEY COMMITTEE: HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE
Key subcommittee: Trade Subcommittee
Contact Information
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - The contact information for members of the
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee is as follows. Please
contact the members of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee
first.
A. KEY SUBCOMMITTEE: Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee
Trade Subcommittee (Ways and Means)
Contact: Stephanie Lester
1104 Longworth HOB, Washington, DC 20515-6354
Phone: (202) 225-6649; Fax: (202) 226-0158
REPUBLICAN MEMBERS OF TRADE SUBCOMMITTEE:
(1) E. Clay Shaw, FL, Chairman
Phone: (202) 225-3026; Fax: (202) 225-8398
(2) Wally Herger, CA
Phone: (202) 225-3076; Fax: (202) 226-0852
(3) Phil English, PA
Phone: (202) 225-5406; Fax: (202) 225-3103
(4) Jim Nussle, IA
Phone: (202) 225-2911; Fax: (202) 225-9129
(5) Jerry Weller, IL
Phone: (202) 225-3635; Fax: (202) 225-3521
(6) Ron Lewis, KY
Phone: (202) 225-3501; Fax: (202) 226-2019
(7) Mark Foley, FL
Phone: (202) 225-5792; Fax: (202) 225-3132
(8) Kevin Brady, TX
Phone: (202) 225-4901; Fax: (202) 225-5524
(9) Thomas M. Reynolds, NY;
Phone: (202) 225-5265; Fax: (202) 225-5910
DEMOCRATS MEMBERS OF TRADE SUBCOMMITTEE
(1) Benjamin L. Cardin, MD
Phone: (202) 225-4016; Fax: (202) 225-9219
(2) Sander M. Levin, MI
Phone: 202-225-4961; Fax: 202-226-1033
(3) William J. Jefferson, LA
Phone: 202-225-6636; Fax: 202-225-1988
(4) John S. Tanner, TN
Phone: 202-225-4714; Fax: 202-225-1765
(5) John B. Larson, CT
Phone: 202-225-2265; Fax: 202-225-1031
(6) Jim McDermott, WA
Phone: 202-225-3106; Fax: 202-225-6197
B. REMAINING MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE WAYS AND
MEANS COMMITTEE
REPUBLICANS -----------
(1) Nancy L. Johnson, CT
Phone: 202-225-4476; Fax: 202-225-4488
(2) Jim McCrery, LA
Phone: 202-225-2777; Fax: 202-225-8039
(3) Dave Camp, MI
Phone: 202-225-3561; Fax: 202-225-9679
(4) Jim Ramstad, MN
Phone: 202-225-2871; Fax: 202-225-6351
(5) Sam Johnson, TX
Phone: 202-225-4201; Fax: 202-225-1485
(6) J.D. Hayworth, AZ
Phone: 202-225-2190; Fax: 202-225-3263
(7) Kenny C. Hulshof, MO
Phone: 202-225-2956; Fax: 202-225-5712
(8) Paul Ryan, WI
Phone: 202-225-3031; Fax: 202-225-3393
(9) Eric Cantor, VA
Phone: 202-225-2815; Fax: 202-225-0011
(10) John Linder, GA
Phone: 202-225-4272; Fax: 202-225-4696
(11) Bob Beauprez, CO
Phone: 202-225-2645; Fax: 202-225-5278
(12) Melissa A. Hart, PA
Phone: 202-225-2565; Fax: 202-226-2274
(13) Chris Chocola, IN
Phone: 202-225-3915; Fax: 202-225-6798
(14) Devin Nunes, CA
Phone: 202-225-2523; Fax: 202-225-3404
DEMOCRATS ----------
(1) Charles B. Rangel, NY
Phone: 202-225-4365; Fax: 202-225-0816
(2) Fortney Pete Stark, CA
Phone: 202-225-5056; Fax: 202-226-3805
(3) John Lewis, GA
Phone: 202-225-3801; Fax: 202-225-0351
(4) Richard E. Neal, MA
Phone: 202-225-5601; Fax: 202-225-8112
(5) Michael R. McNulty, NY
Phone: 202-225-5076; Fax: 202-225-5077
(6) Xavier Becerra, CA
Phone: 202-225-6235; Fax: 202-225-2202
(7) Lloyd Doggett, TX
Phone: 202-225-4865; Fax: 202-225-2947
(8) Earl Pomeroy, ND
Phone: 202-225-2611; fax: 202-226-0893
(9) Stephanie Tubbs Jones, OH
Phone: 202-225-7032; fax: 202-225-1339
(10) Mike Thompson, CA
Phone: 202-225-3311; Fax: 202-225-4335
(11) Rahm Emanuel, IL
Phone: 202-225-4061; Fax: 202-225-5603
PLEASE TAKE ACTION NOW
Due to tight security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress can
be significantly delayed (like up to two weeks or more); we therefore
recommend that letters be faxed.
Please take action now to quickly and substantially increase the number
of Members of the House who are co-sponsors of H.R. 1053. This is
very, very important to the success of Ukraine's graduation from the
Jackson-Vanik amendment this week. -30-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
5. KEY CONGRESSMAN: CONTACT YOUR OWN
Urge your U.S. Representative to co-sponsor H.R. 1053 now
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - It is very important to Ukraine graduating from
the Jackson-Vanik Amendment for you to immediately contact your
own U.S. Representative about becoming an immediate co-sponsor of
H.R. 1053.
HOW TO CONTACT YOUR CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE
[1] If you know who your Representative is you can call the U.S. Capitol
telephone operator at (202) 224-3121 and ask to be connected to their
office. The offices of all 435 Representatives and 100 Senators can be
contacted through this one telephone number.
You can ask to talk with your Representative's appropriate staff person
who handles Jackson-Vanik legislation. This is also one way to obtain
the fax number you need.
[2] You can also find your Representatives contact information by
selecting their name from the Representative web sites list at the House
of Representatives website www.house.gov.
Once you select your Representative click "go" and you will be redirected
to your Representative's website. The contact information for your
Representative's Washington, DC and district offices will be posted on
the site. It is important to find the fax number.
[3] If you do not know who your Representative is visit the House of
Representatives website at www.house.gov. To find your Representative
on the House website type your ZIP+4 code in the appropriate boxes and
click "go".
HOW TO FIND YOUR ZIP+4 CODE
If you do not know your ZIP+4 code visit the United States Postal Service
website at www.usps.com. Click on the "Find a Zip Code" section and enter
your address, city, and state information, then click "submit".
WE RECOMMEND THAT LETTERS BE FAXED
Due to tight security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress can
be significantly delayed (like up to two weeks or more); we therefore
recommend that letters be faxed. -30-
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in a letter-to-the-editor today. Let us hear from you.
========================================================
6. KEY MEMBERS: UKRAINIAN CONGRESSIONAL CAUCUS
MEMBERS WHO HAVE NOT YET CO-SPONSORED H.R. 1053
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition is also
urging people to contact House members of the Ukrainian Congressional
Caucus who have not yet agreed to co-sponsor H.R. 1053.
We feel there is a high probability that these Members would, if
contacted by enough people, agree to co-sponsor H.R. 1053,
introduced by Congressman Gerlach.
There are only twenty-six members of the Ukrainian Congressional
Caucus. Of the twenty-six only six of them, Representatives Curt
Weldon, Roscoe Bartlett, Marcy Kaptur, Michael McNulty, Chris
Smith and Maurice Hinchey have presently signed on as co-sponsors
of H.R. 1053.
PLEASE CONTACT THE FOLLOWING 20 REPRESENTATIVES
The list of the twenty members of the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus,
with contact information, who have NOT yet co-sponsored H.R. 1053 is
shown below.
1. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI)
Contact: Jeff Ziarko
Phone: (202) 225-4961; Fax: (202) 226-1033
2. Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA)
Contact: Doug Campbell
Phone: (202) 225-4695; Fax: (202) 225-3196
3. Rep. Corrine Brown (D-FL)
Contact: David Simon
Phone: (202) 225-0123; Fax: (202) 225-2256
4. Rep. Sherrod Brown (D-OH)
Contact: Brett Gibson
Phone: (202) 225-3401; Fax: (202) 225-2266
5. Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL)
Contact: Evan Decresce
Phone: (202) 225-5006; Fax: (202) 225-5641
6. Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX)
Contact: Oscar Quinones
Phone: (202) 225-4865; Fax: (202) 225-2947
7. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY)
Contact: Sasha Suderow
Phone: (202) 225-2464; Fax: (202) 225-5513
8. Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-IL)
Contact: Joan Kato
Phone: (202) 225-8203; Fax: (202) 225-7810
9. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI)
Contact: Craig Albright
Phone: (202) 225-5802; Fax: (202) 226-2356
10. Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-OH)
Contact: Samantha Stinney
Phone: (202) 225-5871; Fax: 9202) 225-5745
11. Rep. James Langevin (D-RI)
Contact: Brian Daniels
Phone: (202) 225-2735; Fax: (202) 225-5976
12. Rep. Tom Lantos (D-CA)
Mr. Lantos is the minority leader on the House Committee on
International Relations.His office refers Jackson-Vanik type
issues to the International Relations Subcommitte on Europe
and Emerging Threats
Maj. Staff Dir.: Richard Mereu
Min. Staff Dir.: Jonathan Katz
Phone: (202) 226-7820; Fax: (202) 226-2722
13. Rep. Nita Lowey (D-NY)
Contact: Beth Tritter
Phone: (202) 225-6506; Fax: (202) 225-0546
14. Rep. Robert Menendez (D-NJ)
Contact: Jessica Lewis
Phone: (202) 225-7919; Fax: (202) 226-6025
15. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ)
Contact: Jim Delmonico
Phone: (202) 225-4671; Fax: (202) 225-9665
16. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ)
Contact: Susan Quatron
Phone: (202) 225-5751; Fax: (202) 225-5782
17. Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
Contact: Mike Sheehy
Phone: (202) 225-4965; Fax: (202) 225-8259
18. Rep. Steven Rothman (D-NJ)
Contact: Shelly Stoneman
Phone: (202) 225-5061; Fax: (202) 225-5851
19. Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA)
Contact: Zahava Goldman
Phone: (202) 225-3976; Fax: (202) 225-4099
20. Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-NY)
Contact: Joshua Fa-Hurvitz
Phone: (202) 225-6616; Fax: (202) 226-7253
Please contact these twenty U.S. Representatives who are members
of the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus and urge them to immediately
become co-sponsors of H.R. 1053.
WE RECOMMEND LETTERS BE FAXED
Due to tight security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress
can be significantly delayed (up to two weeks or more); we therefore
recommend that letters be faxed. -30-
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
7. JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION MEMBERSHIP LIST
Coalition membership now over 230
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition has now
grown to over 230 U.S. and international organizations, businesses and
interest groups!
The membership list now has on it several large corporations such as
AES Corporation, Boeing Company, Cardinal Resources, Cargill Inc.,
Case New Holland, Coca-Cola Company, John Deere, Kraft Foods
Inc., Westinghouse Electric Corporation and the U.S. Chamber
of Commerce and the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine
(AMCHAM).
The Coalition, which was launched in October, supports Ukraine’s
graduation from the provisions of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment. The
Amendment, passed in 1974, imposed trade restrictions on the Soviet
Union (and its successors) in response to poor human rights practices,
particularly restrictions on the emigration of religious minorities.
Ukraine is a success story for Jackson-Vanik; the country has built a
strong record of open emigration and created conditions for religious
minorities to practice their beliefs freely. Ukraine’s record has been
recognized by both Presidents Clinton and Bush.
The U.S. Senate passed Senate bill S. 632 on November 18 to graduate
Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik. The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
now urges that the House of Representatives take similar action.
Ukraine’s record merits graduation, which would be an important signal
of U.S. support for a democratic Ukraine.
TO JOIN THE COALITION AND SUPPORT UKRAINE
The Coalition is still accepting members. What business or
organization can you add to the list? Please contact us. The Coalition
would like to have over 300 members. Your assistance is needed now.
To join the Coalition and support Ukraine’s graduation from Jackson-
Vanik,, e-mail JVGC@usukraine.org or call 202 347 4264. For more
information on the Coalitions efforts and the history of the Jackson-Vanik
Amendment visit the Coalition’s WEBSITE at
http://www.usukraine.org/jvgc.shtml.
JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION MEMBERSHIP LIST
230+ Members, Monday, December 12, 2005
ABEA ltd (www.go2kiev.com)
ACDI/VOCA
Adams and Reese, LLP
AES Corporation
Affiliated Appraisers
American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine (AMCHAM)
American Jewish Committee
American Jewish Congress
American Ukrainian Medical Foundation
Americans For Human Rights in Ukraine
Andrew J. Futey & Associates
Arbor View Dental Clinic, Mt. Prospect , IL
Aspect Energy, LLC
Association for the Democratization of Ukraine
Association of American Youth of Ukrainian Descent- ODUM
Atlantic Group, Ltd.
A W and Sons Inc
Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz
Berdyansk Reapers
B'nai B'rith International
Boeing (The Boeing Company)
Bolshoi Agrotechnica Machina (BAM) America
Borough of Roselle Park, New Jersey
BRAMA, Inc.
Breakthrough to People Network, Inc.
Breeze Ventures Management
BSI Group
Buckner Orphan Care International
Canada-Ukraine Foundation
Cape Point Capital Inc.
Case New Holland, Inc.
Cardinal Resources PLC
Cargill Inc.
Center for US-Ukrainian Relations, NYC
Chadbourne & Parke, LLC
Chopivsky Family Foundation
Coca-Cola (The Coca Cola Company)
Conlan & Associates
Council of Ukrainian-American Organizations of Greater Hartford
Crestway Manor Apts. LTD
Customs, Trade & Risk Management Services, Ltd.
David D. Sweere & Sons International, Ltd.
Democrats Abroad- Ukraine Chapter
Diaspora Enterprise
Dr. James Mace Holodomor-Genocide Memorial Fund
Drake Group Holding Corporation
Draper Fisher Jurvetson NEXUS
Dutko Worldwide
ECdata, Inc.
Excelsio Communications
Exquisite Elixirs, Inc.
Eye Center of Delaware
Floral Designs by Katya, Chicago
"Freedom" Ukrainian-American Publishing House
GN Associates
Gold Coast Construction
Gold Coast Properties, Inc.
Gongadze Foundation
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Heller & Rosenblatt Law Firm
Heritage Foundation of 1st Security Federal Savings Bank, Chicago
Hollywood Trident Foundation
Holodomor Survivors, Inc.
Inco Americas
Independent Voters for Equal Education & Opportunity
International Republican Institute (IRI)
International Ukrainian Genocide-Holodomor Committee
Irondequoit-Poltava Sister Cities Committee
ISTIL (Ukraine)
ISTIL Group Inc.
Ivan Bahrianyj Foundation, Arlington Heights, IL
John A. Wood, Associates Inc.
John Deere (Deere & Company)
John Wood Ministries, Inc.
Kalik Lewin Law Firm
Kiev-Atlantic Ukraine
Kobzar Society, Ltd.
Kraft Foods, Inc.
LPL Financial Services, Inc.
Krislaty Realty Investments
Kvazar-Micro Corp.
L. B. Lyons & Company
Largo Asset Management, LLC
Larry M. Walker Ministries, Inc.
Lemberg Unternehmensberatung, GmbH
Light of Crimea Foundation
MACOIL & Gas International
Maple Investments
Media Finance Management, LLC
Medical Relief Charity Fund
Melitopol Tractor Hydro Units Plant
Meta
Ministering to Ministers Foundation, Inc.
MJA Asset Management, LLC
Moye Handling Systems, Inc.
NAS Global Trade Ltd.
National Conference on Soviet Jewry
National Tribune
Nealon and Associates, P.C.
New Millennium Strategies
New Roots Restoration
North Winnipeg Credit Union Limited, Winnipeg, MB
Nuclear Information and Resource Service
Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine, Inc.
Organization for the Rebirth of Ukraine
Paco Links International
Parents Targeting Achievement
Parents Targeting Opportunity
Perekhid Media Limited (Ukraine)
Perekhid Outdoor (Ukraine)
Perekhid Business Publishing (Ukraine)
Piedmont Trading, Inc.
Plast Ukrainian Youth Organization
Poltava Confectionery
Pro Trade Group
Pro-W International Corporation
Raymond Linsenmayer & Associates
Reut Consulting
Richard W. Murphy Consulting Group
Ring Publishing (Ukraine)
RUKH-Ukrainian Movement to aid Democracy in Ukraine, Chicago
Russian-Ukrainian Legal Group, P.A.
Russin & Vecchi LLC, Moscow
Salans Law Firm
Sevastopol Shipyard
Shevchenko Scientific Society
Sigma Venture, Inc.
SigmaBleyzer Emerging Markets Private Equity Investment Group
Siguler Guff & Company, LLC
Skarabey Group LLC
Society for Fostering Jewish Ukrainian Relations
Softline
Solid Team, LLC
St. Andrew's Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Bloomingdale, IL
St. Nicholas' Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral - B.M.V. Sodality, Chicago
"St. Sophia" Religious Association of Ukrainian Catholics, Inc. USA
SUM Ukrainian Youth Organization
Sweet Analysis Services, Inc.
Techinvest
TEREX Corporation
Town of Irondequoit, New York
The Action Ukraine Report (AUR)
The Bleyzer Foundation
The International Medical Education Foundation, Inc.
The PBN Company
The School of the Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble
The Washington Group
TransNational Resource, LLC
UkrAgroAssets, LLC
UkrAgroSystems, LLC
Ukraine-United States Business Council
Ukrainian Academic and Professional Association
Ukrainian Academy of Arts and Sciences in the USA
Ukrainian American Bar Association
Ukrainian American Civil Liberties Association
Ukrainian American Coordinating Council
Ukrainian-American Environmental Association
Ukrainian-American Freedom Foundation
Ukrainian American Senior Citizens Association
Ukrainian American Soccer Association, Inc.
Ukrainian American Sports Center "Tryzub"
Ukrainian Association in Austria
Ukrainian Citizens International Association
Ukrainian Community Action Network, Chicago
Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, Illinois Branch
Ukrainian Cossack Brotherhood, Chicago
Ukrainian Credit Union Development Committee
Ukrainian Cultural Center, Fairfax, VA
Ukrainian Cultural & Humanitarian Institute
Ukrainian Development Company, LLC
Ukrainian Education & Cultural Center
Ukrainian Engineer's Society of America, Inc. Philadelphia Chapter
Ukrainian Federal Credit Union
Ukrainian Federation of America
Ukrainian Fraternal Organization
Ukrainian Genocide Famine Foundation, Chicago
Ukrainian Gold Cross, Inc.
Ukrainian Holodomor Exhibition Committee
Ukrainian Human Rights Committee
Ukrainian Institute of America
Ukrainian Medical Association of North America
Ukrainian Museum-Archives, Cleveland, Ohio
Ukrainian National Credit Union Association
Ukrainian National Association
Ukrainian National Museum of Chicago
Ukrainian National Women's League of America, Inc.
Ukrainian National Women's League of America, Regional Councils:
Detroit, New York, Central New York, Northern New York, Ohio,
New Jersey, Chicago, New England, Philadelphia;
Branches at Large: Phoenix, Atlanta, Miami, Pittsburgh, Denver,
North Port, Washington D.C., San Jose, Los Angeles, Houston,
Tucson, St. Petersburg
Ukrainian Selfreliance New England Federal Credit Union
Ukrainian Wave Radio Program, Chicago
UKRUSA International Ltd.
United Software Corporation
United Ukrainian American Organizations of Greater New York
United Ukrainian Organizations of Greater Cleveland (UZO)
Usability Matrix Corporation
U. S. Chamber of Commerce
U.S. Civilian Research & Development Foundation (CRDF)
U.S.- Ukraine Foundation
Vantage Enterprises, L.L.C.
Venable LLP
VIKO Corporation
Volia Cable
Volia Software, Inc.
Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble
Westinghouse Electric Corporation
Wilton S. Tifft Photography
WJ Group of Agricultural Companies
WJ Hopper & Co., Limited
World Federation of Ukrainian Medical Associations
World Federation of Ukrainian Women's Organizations, Financial Committee
World League of Ukrainian Political Prisoners
www.ArtUkraine.com Information Service (ARTUIS)
Zaporizhya Meat Processing
Zen Architects
For more information on the Coalitions efforts and the history of the
Jackson-Vanik Amendment and for the latest membership list visit the
Coalition’s WEBSITE at http://www.usukraine.org/jvgc.shtml. -30-
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
NOTE: Some of the information in articles one through seven above
was researched and prepared on behalf of the Jackson-Vanik Graduation
Coalition with the assistance of The Action Ukraine Report (AUR)
Information Service, Morgan Williams, Publisher and Editor, and
Matthew Popadiuk, Assistant to the Editor.
========================================================
Send in names and e-mail addresses for the AUR distribution list.
========================================================
8. SEC OF STATE RICE WRITES CONG CHARLES RANGEL THAT
ADMINISTRATION SUPPORTS UKRAINE'S GRADUATION
FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
Office of the Secretary of State
U.S. Department of State
Washington, D.C., November 8, 2005
THE SECRETARY OF STATE
WASHINGTON
November 8, 2005
Dear Mr. Rangel:
The Administration strongly supports appropriate legislation that would
authorize the President to terminate the application of Title IV of the
Trade Act of 1974 (the Jackson-Vanik Amendment), with respect to Ukraine,
and to extend permanent normal trade relations treatment to products of that
country.
Since 1993, every administration has found Ukraine in compliance with the
freedom of emigration criteria on which the Jackson-Vanik Amendment is
based. The Bush Administration has consistently supported the termination
of Jackson-Vanik with respect to Ukraine.
In view of the dramatic democratic transformation that Ukraine has
undergone in the past year and the efforts of the Yushchenko government to
complete Ukraine's accession to the World Trade Organization and to
integrate more closely with trans-Atlantic institutions, it is important
that Congress act to lift Jackson-Vanik.
The success of Ukrainian democracy is vital not only for the people of
Ukraine, but also for the region as a whole. Congressional action to lift
Jackson-Vanik and extend permanent normal trade relations would send a
strong signal of support to Ukraine at a critical juncture.
This support is not intended to minimize the importance of outstanding trade
issues between our two countries. The State Department will continue to
support the work of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to ensure
that Ukraine's eventual entry into the WTO is consistent with WTO
requirements and benefits American businesses, farmers, and ranchers, and
promotes economic prosperity and rule of law in Ukraine.
Sincerely,
Condoleezza Rice
The Honorable Charles B. Rangel,
House of Representatives.
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in names and e-mail addresses for the AUR distribution list.
========================================================
9. UKRAINE-UNITED STATES BUSINESS COUNCIL URGES WAYS
AND MEANS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN THOMAS TO LEAD HOUSE
IN GRADUATING UKRAINE FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
NEWS RELEASE: Ukraine-United States Business Council
Washington, D.C., Thursday, December 8, 2005
WASHINGTON - The Ukraine-United States Business Council today
released the text of its letter to Ways and Means Committee Chairman
Bill Thomas urging his leadership to pass in the House of Representatives
legislation ending application of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment to Ukraine
and extending permanent normal trade relations treatment to products of
Ukraine.
Council President, Dr. Susanne S. Lotarski, emphasized in her letter that
Ukraine fully meets the criteria established by the Jackson-Vanik
Amendment for extension of permanent normal trade relations.
She noted that, as active traders and investors in the Ukrainian market, the
members of the Ukraine-United States Business Council see this as a no
cost way to remove an irritant in bilateral commercial relations and send a
message of hope and support for Ukraine's efforts to secure democracy,
build a vibrant market economy, and integrate into the Euro-Atlantic
community of nations.
TEXT OF LETTER:
December 7, 2005
Honorable Bill Thomas, Chairman
Ways and Means Committee
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC
Dear Chairman Thomas,
The Ukraine-United States Business Council, founded in 1995, requests
your leadership in passing legislation in the House of Representatives
now to terminate application of Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974 (the
Jackson-Vanik Amendment) with respect to Ukraine, and to extend
permanent normal trade relations treatment to products of Ukraine.
Ukraine fully meets the criteria established by the Jackson-Vanik
Amendment for extension of permanent normal trading relations.
Ukraine has a well-established record of open emigration, recognized
by U.S. Presidents of both parties, and has created conditions in
which religious minorities can freely practice their faith.
A year ago, the people of Ukraine showed great courage and withstood
many hardships to advance democracy in their country. They still face
many difficulties to secure their democracy, build a vibrant market
economy, and integrate into the Euro-Atlantic community of nations. On
this first anniversary of the Orange Revolution, we can send them an
important message of hope and support by graduating Ukraine from
Jackson-Vanik and extending PNTR.
With the Senate having passed S. 632, House passage of similar legislation
would enable President Bush to graduate Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik and
fulfill one of the key U.S. commitments from his April 4 Joint Statement
with President Yushchenko.
As active traders and investors in the Ukrainian market, the members of the
Ukraine-United States Business Council fully support graduating Ukraine
from Jackson-Vanik and extending permanent normal trading relations to
Ukraine. Doing so will remove a symbolic irritant in the bilateral
commercial relationship, with no economic or other costs to the United
States.
We urge your support for early enactment of such legislation.
Sincerely,
Susanne S. Lotarski
President
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jackson - Vanik Graduation Coalition
NOTE: The Ukraine - United States Business Council and a
considerable number of its individual member companies are
members of the Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition. Ambassador
Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller are co-chairs of the
Coalition. To join the Coalition and support Ukraine’s graduation
from Jackson-Vanik,, e-mail JVGC@usukraine.org or call 202-347-
4264. For more information on the Coalitions efforts and the history
of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment visit the Coalition’s WEBSITE
at http://www.usukraine.org/jvgc.shtml.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ukraine - United States Business Council, Washington, D.C.
President: Susanne S. Lotarski, Ph.D.
Executive Committee: Chairman, Morgan Williams, SigmaBleyzer;
Andrew E. Bej, ALICO; Shannon S. S. Herzfeld, Archer Daniels
Midland (ADM); Michael Kirst, Westinghouse Electric Company;
John W. Rauber, Jr., Deere & Company; Van Yeutter, Cargill.
Secretary/Treasurer: John C. Stephens, Cape Point Capital.
General Counsel: Jack I. Heller, Esq., Heller & Rosenblatt.
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
10. JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION CO-CHAIRMEN'S
LETTER TO CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS
Chairman, U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Letter to Chairman Bill Thomas, R-CA
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Washington, D.C. Wednesday, November 30, 2005
November 30, 2005, Washington, D.C.
Dear Chairman Thomas,
On the first anniversary of Ukraine's Orange Revolution, and with the Senate
having passed S. 632, we are writing to request your action to pass
legislation in the House of Representatives to graduate Ukraine from the
Jackson-Vanik Amendment. The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition has
united organizations from across the country in support of the immediate
graduation of Ukraine from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment.
Ukraine has fully met the requirements of Jackson-Vanik, in particular by
its exemplary record of open emigration. This has been recognized by
President Clinton, who found Ukraine to be in full compliance with
Jackson-Vanik in 1997, and President Bush, who called for Ukraine's
graduation in his April 4, 2005 joint statement with President Yushchenko.
President Yushchenko received a unanimous ovation during a Joint Session
of the U.S. Congress on April 6, 2005, when he remarked "we seek a new
atmosphere of trust, frankness and partnership. I am calling upon you to
[end] the Jackson-Vanik Amendment. Please tear down this wall."
We have just returned from Ukraine, where we heard concerns from a
number of Ukrainian political leaders that lack of action by the United
States with regard to Jackson-Vanik could be seen as a failure of
Yushchenko's pro-Western policy.
With the upcoming March 2006 parliamentary elections in Ukraine,
graduation from Jackson-Vanik would be understood by the people of
Ukraine as a compelling sign of U.S. support for the continued development
of a democratic market economy and further integration of Ukraine into
Europe.
Our broad coalition, which currently includes over 65 Ukrainian-American
and Jewish-American groups, business organizations and NGOs, urges
immediate Congressional action to accomplish Ukraine's graduation. We
very much hope for your support.
Sincerely,
Steven Pifer, William Green Miller, Co-Chairman
[Former U.S. Ambassador's to Ukraine]
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
11. CENTRAL AND EAST EUROPEAN COALITION ENDORSES HOUSE
MEASURE TO REVOKE JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT FOR UKRAINE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA)
New York, New York, Friday, December 9, 2005
NEW YORK - In a December 9 letter to the House of Representatives Ways
and Means Committee Chairman William Thomas (22-CA), the Central and
East European Coalition (CEEC) urges support of HR1053, which would
repeal the Jackson-Vanik amendment for Ukraine and grant it permanent
normal trade relations with the United States.
By encouraging the favorable consideration of H.R. 1053, the Central and
East European Coalition is putting the weight of 18 national, grassroots
organizations and more than 22 million Americans of Central and East
European heritage behind the House bill.
The member organizations of the Central and East European Coalition
constitute Americans of Armenian, Belarusan, Bulgarian, Czech, Estonian,
Georgian, Hungarian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Romanian, Slovak, and
Ukrainian heritage, and thus represent a broad base of support for the
measure.
The Jackson-Vanik Amendment to the 1974 Trade Act prevented the
normalization of trade relations with "non-market economies," but the
sweeping economic reforms undertaken in Ukraine since it regained
independence in 1991, and especially after the Orange Revolution of 2004,
have rendered the restrictions antiquated.
Following the U.S. Senate's repeal of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment on
November 18th, Representative Jim Gerlach (R-PA) has introduced H.R.
1053, a bipartisan measure in the House of Representatives aimed at
graduating Ukraine from and granting it permanent normal trade relations
status.
"The elimination of this relic of Soviet-era politics," the Central and East
European Coalition's letter reads, "will benefit American business in
Ukraine, as well as increase trade with that country." As Ukraine pursues
World Trade Organization accession and European integration, and the
United States seeks to foster new democracies, the repeal of the Jackson-
Vanik Amendment takes on considerable global significance.
Given the recent statements of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on the
growing strategic partnership with Ukraine, the actions of the U.S. Senate
in passing the repeal of the Jackson-Vanik amendment, and the support of the
Central and East European Coalition, H.R. 1053 has gained more prominence.
Repealing the Jackson-Vanik Amendment would be of clear benefit to Ukraine,
as the CEEC's letter to Chairman Thomas states, "Ukraine is moving in the
right direction, though sustained support from the United States Congress
will assist Ukraine down its arduous path."
The letter was signed on behalf of the CEEC member organizations by Nino
Japaridze, President - Georgian Association in the US; Lya M. Karm, M.D.,
Chair - Joint Baltic American National Committee, Inc; and, Alice Kipel,
from the Belarusan-American Association.
Michael Sawkiw, Jr., expressed the Ukrainian Congress Committee of
America's (UCCA) appreciation to the CEEC for their support of HR1053:
"This is a very sensitive issue for Ukraine and one that needs to be
resolved quickly for the betterment of US-Ukrainian bilateral relations. The letter
from the CEEC, as well as individual letters from respective CEEC member
organizations, is both helpful and truly appreciated. We thank our Central
and East European colleagues for their support."
The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America and the Ukrainian National
Association were founding members of the Central and East European
Coalition.
The other Coalition members include: the American Latvian Association, the
Armenian Assembly of America, the Belarusan-American Association, the
Bulgarian Institute for Research and Analysis, the Congress of Romanian
Americans, the Czechoslovak National Council of America, the Estonian
American National Council, the Georgian Association in the USA, the
Hungarian American Coalition, the Joint Baltic American National Committee,
the Lithuanian-American Community, the Lithuanian American Council, the
National Federation of American Hungarians, the Polish American Congress,
the Slovak League of America, and the US-Baltic Foundation. -30-
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact: Matthew Omolesky, Ukrainian Congress Committee of America
203 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10003; tel: (212) 228-6840;
fax: (212) 254-4721; e-mail: ucca@ucca.org; Web: http://www.ucca.org
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
12. URGENT APPEAL: SUPPORT NEEDED NOW FOR HR1053 BY
REP. JIM GERLACH FOR SUCCESSFUL REPEAL OF THE
JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT FOR UKRAINE BY U.S. HOUSE
UPDATE: Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS)
Washington, D.C., Friday, December 9, 2005
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS)
has been diligently working on the Jackson-Vanik issue for over four years.
Our efforts have finally borne fruit...in wake of the recent successful repeal
of the Jackson-Vanik amendment in the Senate, the House of Representatives
is seeking passage of their bill.
UNIS is actively coordinating its efforts with the Congressional Ukrainian
Caucus to support HR1053, introduced by Rep. Jim Gerlach (R-PA).
Thanks to our efforts, as of December 7, 2005, twenty-three (23)
congressional co-sponsors have signed onto the bill (sponsors listed
below).
HR1053 CO-SPONSORS:
Rep Andrews, Robert E. [NJ-1]; Rep Bartlett, Roscoe G. [MD-6]; Rep Boehlert,
Sherwood [NY-24]; Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5]; Rep Crowley, Joseph [NY-7]; Rep
Dent, Charles W. [PA-15]; Rep Diaz-Balart, Lincoln [FL-21]; Rep English,
Phil [PA-3]; Rep Fitzpatrick, Michael G. [PA-8]; Rep Harman, Jane [CA-36];
Rep Kaptur, Marcy [OH-9]; Rep Kennedy, Mark R. [MN-6]; Rep Langevin, James
R. [RI-2]; Rep McNulty, Michael R. [NY-21]; Rep Peterson, John E. [PA-5];
Rep Pitts, Joseph R. [PA-16]; Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19]; Rep Schwarz,
John J.H. "Joe" [MI-7]; Rep Shuster, Bill [PA-9]; Rep Smith, Christopher H.
[NJ-4]; Rep Snyder, Vic [AR-2]; Rep Weldon, Curt [PA-7]; Rep Wexler, Robert
[FL-19]
We are in the homestretch, therefore, UNIS urges you to send letters to your
respective Members of Congress requesting their support for HR1053 !!!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GRADUATE UKRAINE FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
LET OUR VOICES BE HEARD!!!
ACTION ITEM: Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS)
Washington, D.C., Thursday, December 1, 2005
WASHINGTON - The recent "Orange Revolution" in Ukraine has
transformed the political landscape in that country. Calls for a re-
examination of U.S.-Ukrainian bilateral relations is necessary, and
warranted.
One of the more immediate issues is the revocation of the Jackson-Vanik
amendment to the 1974 Trade Act, which limits trade with countries that
do not allow free emigration of its citizens. Ukraine "inherited" the
amendment when it re-established its independence in 1991.
In early April 2005 in an address to a Joint Session of the United States
Congress, President Yushchenko reiterated the need to repeal the
Jackson-Vanik amendment and bring that chapter of Ukraine's history to
a close.
Recent passage of a bill in the United States Senate (S632) has prompted
efforts in the House of Representatives by Rep. Jim Gerlach (R-PA) to
"graduate" Ukraine from the Jackson-Vanik amendment.
The Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS) requests all Ukrainian
Americans and friends of Ukraine to contact their U.S. representatives and
urge them to support Rep. Gerlach's bill HR1053.
Attached, please find a sample letter to send to your U.S. representative.
Sample letters may be e-mailed directly to your representative at
http://www.house.gov/writerep/. Should you have any questions, please feel
free to contact the UNIS office by phone at (202) 547-0018 or via email at
unis@ucca.org.
SAMPLE LETTER
The Honorable (Name)
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Representative (Name):
As a Ukrainian American residing in your district, I urge you to support
HR1053, a bill introduced by Rep. Jim Gerlach to "graduate" Ukraine from
the Jackson-Vanik amendment of the 1974 Trade Act. This amendment is
a relic of Cold War-era politics.
Each Administration since 1992 has certified that Ukraine has met all
requirements stipulated in the law. Furthermore, as recent as November 18,
2005, the United States Senate passed by unanimous consent S632 to repeal
the Jackson-Vanik amendment for Ukraine.
In the last few months, the world has witnessed Ukraine make a firm
commitment to a democratic future and integration into the Euro-Atlantic
community. It is essential that the U.S. Congress support the goodwill of
the Ukrainian people and attest in providing greater bilateral relations.
Repealing the Jackson-Vanik amendment, as was accomplished in the United
States Senate, is a critical step that will demonstrate to the Ukrainian
government that the United States welcomes the changes they implemented
and trusts in the future of Ukraine. I urge you to support HR1053 and thus
to facilitate the democratic and economic development of Ukraine.
Sincerely,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michael Sawkiw, Jr., President, Ukrainian Congress Committee
of America (UCCA), Washington Office: Ukrainian National
Information Service, 311 Massachusetts Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002, tel: (202) 547-0018, fax: (202) 543-5502
e-mail: unis@ucca.org, Web at: http://www.ucca.org
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in a letter-to-the-editor today. Let us hear from you.
========================================================
13. "A STEP TOWARD NORMALCY"
COMMENTARY: By Peter Savodnik
Political editor of the Hill newspaper
The Wall Street Journal Online (Europe)
New York, NY, Thursday, September 29, 2005
WASHINGTON -- In its quest to democratize the planet, Washington has
invaded countries, funded fighters, convened high-level summits and pushed
transcontinental trade pacts. Oddly, it has yet to "graduate" Ukraine from
an antiquated human-rights measure that, if left in place, could slow the
spread of freedom in the former Soviet Union.
The 1974 Jackson-Vanik amendment, designed primarily to restrict Soviet
exports to the U.S., remains a canker sore in U.S.-Ukrainian relations. Most
every senior Ukrainian official, from President Viktor Yushchenko to Foreign
Minister Boris Tarasyuk, both of whom traveled to the United States this
month, has called for lifting it.
This emphasis on Jackson-Vanik might seem to be misplaced; Ukraine gets
annual waivers from the provision, so Ukrainians' access to U.S. markets is
not curtailed. But it has political and symbolic meaning for a nation still
struggling to overcome its Soviet past.
There is a widespread feeling among Ukrainians that their country cannot be
considered "normal" as long as this remnant of the old days lingers.
Lifting Jackson-Vanik would cost the U.S. nothing. President George W. Bush
has signaled support for taking action. So, too, have foreign-policy mavens,
Republicans and Democrats alike, on Capitol Hill, as well as Sovietologists
and Russia scholars at the State Department and the National Security
Council.
So what's the holdup? Simply put, American democracy is getting in the way
of democracy overseas. Parochial congressional interests -- involving
everyone from chicken farmers to movie stars -- are stalling efforts,
spearheaded by Republican Sen. John McCain and Rep. Henry Hyde and
Democratic Rep. Tom Lantos, to lift Jackson-Vanik from Ukraine.
While most everyone who cares about geopolitics and democracy in the
former Soviet Union backs graduating Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik, some
members of Congress have found the provision useful when bargaining
with Kiev and other former Soviet capitals such as Moscow.
Case in point: In 2002, after Russia and Ukraine imposed quotas on U.S.
poultry imports, Democratic Sen. Joseph Biden rescinded his support for
lifting Jackson-Vanik.
Similarly, the Motion Picture Association wants authorities in Ukraine to
protect intellectual property rights. American oil and gas executives want
access to Ukraine's energy markets. And bankers, lawyers, hotel owners,
car manufacturers, venture capitalists and other potential investors want
Ukraine's banking, torts and law-enforcement systems cleaned up so they
meet Western standards of transparency and accountability.
All of these groups have, directly and indirectly, led lawmakers to take a
cautious stance on lifting Jackson-Vanik. Their demands are reasonable,
and Ukraine would be wise to listen to Western officials seeking to bring
the ex-Soviet republic into the liberal fold. Nor can Sen. Biden and other
lawmakers be blamed for representing the interests of their constituents.
But delaying an end to Jackson-Vanik -- for whatever reason -- would hinder
the democratic transition by depriving Mr. Yushchenko of a much-needed
political win and, possibly, complicating Ukraine's efforts to be admitted
to the World Trade Organization.
This would be an ironic twist. Jackson-Vanik was never intended to be a
bargaining chip for opening markets to U.S. business. It was meant to punish
the Soviets for restricting Jewish emigration, and it did so by barring
Moscow from gaining "most favored nation" status. In other words,
Jackson-Vanik sought a human-rights end via trade-related means.
Never mind that the country Jackson-Vanik was intended for no longer exists.
(A similar argument convinced many Republicans a few years back that the
U.S. should pull out of the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.) What matters is
that Jackson-Vanik, once meant to foster progress, now runs the distinct
risk of impeding it.
Even Jewish groups concerned that Ukraine has yet to confront its past --
including support of many Ukrainians during World War II for Hitler's
holocaust and the pogroms of the czarist and Soviet eras -- want
Jackson-Vanik lifted now. Despite legitimate reservations, these groups
recognize that it's time to take this step.
Consider the American Jewish Committee. An Aug. 2 letter from David Harris,
the AJC's executive director, to all 535 members of Congress states: "The
Jewish community has come a long way since the end of communism in 1991
and the re-establishment of Ukrainian independence....To be sure, some
difficult issues remain.
First, there is still work to be done by the government in the matter of
restitution of Jewish communal property. And second, manifestations of
anti-Semitism, though condemned by the government and by no means
unique to Ukraine in today's world, remain a matter of concern. Even so,
the current vitality of the Jewish community is a remarkable sight to
behold."
Referring to a recent trip taken by AJC representatives to Ukraine, Mr.
Harris concludes: "One issue in particular on the minds of those officials
with whom we met is the hope for graduation from the Jackson-Vanik
Amendment, a goal we fully share."
Graduatin
Ïîäÿêà çà âàøó ó÷àñòü!
========================================================
"THE ACTION UKRAINE REPORT - AUR"
An International Newsletter
The Latest, Up-To-Date
In-Depth Ukrainian News, Analysis, and Commentary
"Ukrainian History, Culture, Arts, Business, Religion,
Sports, Government, and Politics, in Ukraine and Around the World"
ACTION ALERT:
JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION
Your support needed now to contact members of the U.S. House
Only one-week left for U.S. House to act this year
Legislative calendar running out of time in 2005
Contact key Congressmen today!
"THE ACTION UKRAINE REPORT - AUR" - Number 615
Mr. E. Morgan Williams, Publisher and Editor
Washington, D.C., MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2005
--------INDEX OF ARTICLES--------
"Major International News Headlines and Articles"
1. ACTION ALERT: JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION
Your support needed now to contact members of the U.S. House
Only one-week left for House to act this year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
ACTION ALERT: Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer & Ambassador William Miller, Co-chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
2. KEY RESOLUTION: H.R. 1053 BY CONGRESSMAN GERLACH
Ukraine's graduation from Jackson-Vanik Amendment
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
3. KEY PERSON: CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS, CHAIRMAN
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Contact Information
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
4. KEY COMMITTEE: HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE
Key subcommittee: Trade Subcommittee
Contact Information
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
5. KEY CONGRESSMAN: CONTACT YOUR OWN
Urge your U.S. Representative to co-sponsor H.R. 1053 now
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
6. KEY MEMBERS: UKRAINIAN CONGRESSIONAL CAUCUS
MEMBERS WHO HAVE NOT YET CO-SPONSORED H.R. 1053
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
7. JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION MEMBERSHIP LIST
Coalition membership now over 230
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
8. SEC OF STATE RICE WRITES CONG CHARLES RANGEL THAT
ADMINISTRATION SUPPORTS UKRAINE'S GRADUATION
FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
Office of the Secretary of State
U.S. Department of State
Washington, D.C., November 8, 2005
9. UKRAINE-UNITED STATES BUSINESS COUNCIL URGES WAYS
AND MEANS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN THOMAS TO LEAD HOUSE
IN GRADUATING UKRAINE FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
NEWS RELEASE: Ukraine-United States Business Council
Washington, D.C., Thursday, December 8, 2005
10. JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION CO-CHAIRMEN'S
LETTER TO CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS
Chairman, U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Letter to Chairman Bill Thomas, R-CA
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Washington, D.C. Wednesday, November 30, 2005
11. CENTRAL AND EAST EUROPEAN COALITION ENDORSES HOUSE
MEASURE TO REVOKE JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT FOR UKRAINE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA)
New York, New York, Friday, December 9, 2005
12. URGENT APPEAL: SUPPORT NEEDED NOW FOR HR1053 BY
REP. JIM GERLACH FOR SUCCESSFUL REPEAL OF THE
JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT FOR UKRAINE BY U.S. HOUSE
UPDATE: Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS)
Washington, D.C., Friday, December 9, 2005
13. "A STEP TOWARD NORMALCY"
COMMENTARY: By Peter Savodnik
Political editor of the Hill newspaper
The Wall Street Journal Online (Europe)
New York, NY, Thursday, September 29, 2005
14. U.S. SENATOR LUGAR PRAISES PASSAGE OF BILL THAT
REPEALS APPLICATION OF JACKSON-VANIK TO UKRAINE
Authorizes extension of permanent normal trade relations
Similar bill now has to pass the U.S. House of Representatives
Office of U.S. Senator Richard Lugar
United States Senate, Washington, D.C.
Friday, November 18, 2005
========================================================
1. ACTION ALERT: JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION
Your support needed now to contact members of the U.S. House
Only one-week left for House to act this year
Contact key Congressmen today!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
KEY ACTION ALERT: Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer & Ambassador William Miller, Co-chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition is strongly
urging the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the legislation necessary
to graduate Ukraine from the Jackson-Vanik amendment before the House
adjourns in one-week for the holidays.
Your support and action is needed immediately regarding this critical
matter as time is extremely short.
The U.S. Senate has already passed such enabling legislation and it is
now time for the U.S. House of Representatives to do the same, before
the end of 2005.
There are currently three resolutions in the House regarding Jackson-
Vanik graduation for Ukraine: [1] H.R. 885, introduced by Congressman
Hyde of Illinois, Chairman of the House Committee on International
Relations; [2] H.R. 1053, introduced by Congressman Gerlach of
Pennsylvania; and [3] H.R. 1170, introduced by Congressman Levin of
Michigan.
(2) KEY RESOLUTION: H.R. 1053 BY CONGRESSMAN GERLACH
While very grateful for the leadership that Congressmen Hyde and Levin
and their co-sponsors have shown on this issue, the Jackson-Vanik
Graduation Coalition recommends supporting H.R. 1053, introduced by
Congressman Gerlach.
It is the Coalition's understanding that the Gerlach bill would have
greatest receptivity in the House Ways and Means Committee. The
Coalition therefore urges those who support Jackson-Vanik graduation
for Ukraine to write (fax) or otherwise contact your Congressman and
urge that he or she co-sponsor H.R. 1053, introduced by Congressman
Gerlach (additional information about H.R. 1053 and the present co-
sponsors of H.R. 1053 are listed in article two below).
(Due to security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress can
be significantly delayed; we therefore recommend that letters be faxed.)
As the Jackson-Vanik Amendment is part of the 1974 Trade Act,
the Committee in the House of Representatives with primary jurisdiction
is the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, chaired by Congressman
Bill Thomas of California.
(3) KEY PERSON: CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS, CHAIRMAN
(4) KEY COMMITTEE: HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE
We therefore recommend that those who wish to write (fax) or otherwise
urge Congress on Jackson-Vanik graduation for Ukraine to immediately
contact Congressman Bill Thomas (contact information for Congressman
Thomas can be found below in article three below) and the other members
of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee (the names of the members
on the Ways and Means Committee and their contact information can be
found below in article four).
(5) KEY CONGRESSMAN: CONTACT YOUR OWN
In addition to contacting the Chairman and the other members of the
U.S. Ways and Means Committee please also contact your own
Congressman about becoming a co-sponsor of H.R. 1053. (Information
about how to identify and contact your Congressman can be found in
article five below.)
(6) KEY MEMBERS: UKRAINIAN CONGRESSIONAL CAUCUS
MEMBERS WHO HAVE NOT YET CO-SPONSORED H.R. 1053
The Coalition is also asking people to contact the members of the
Ukrainian Congressional Caucus who have not yet co-sponsored H.R.
1053. We feel there is a high probability that these Members would,
if contacted by enough people, agree to co-sponsor H.R. 1053,
introduced by Congressman Gerlach.
There are twenty-six members of the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus
but only six of them, Representatives Curt Weldon, Roscoe Bartlett,
Marcy Kaptur, Michael McNulty, Chris Smith and Maurice Hinchey
have presently signed on as co-sponsors of H.R. 1053.
A list of the twenty members of the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus
who have not yet co-sponsored H.R. 1053 can be found below in
article six. Contact information for the members can also be found
in article six.
DRAFT: SAMPLE CONGRESSIONAL LETTER
Monday, December 12, 2005
Dear Representative ---------:
I am writing to ask that you co-sponsor H.R. 1053, introduced by
Congressman Jim Gerlach, to remove Ukraine from the coverage of --
or "graduate" Ukraine from -- the Jackson-Vanik Amendment to the
1974 Trade Act.
The Jackson-Vanik Amendment was passed by Congress to encourage
the Soviet Union to allow open emigration for religious minorities,
particularly Soviet Jews, and to create conditions in which religious
minorities could freely practice their faiths. Jackson-Vanik has
succeeded in independent Ukraine, which has met these conditions,
with a long record of open emigration and religious freedom.
In 1997, President Clinton found Ukraine in full compliance with the
provisions of Jackson-Vanik, and President Bush in April 2004 called
for the immediate ending of the application of Jackson-Vanik to
Ukraine. Last month, the U.S. Senate passed by unanimous consent
legislation to graduate Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik.
Ukraine has done what it was asked to do under Jackson-Vanik, and
Congress should now act accordingly. Graduating Ukraine now is not
just the right thing to do; it would also send an important political
signal of continuing U.S. support to President Victor Yushchenko and
the Ukrainian people, as they strive to realize the promise of the
Orange Revolution and build a better future as a free and prosperous
democracy.
I strongly urge your immediate co-sponsorship of H.R. 1053.
Sincerely,
Your letters should be FAXED to Congress, as current security/screening
requirements can cause a significant delay [up to two weeks or more] in
the delivery of regular mail.
IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED BY ALL UKRAINIAN-AMERICANS
AND FRIENDS OF UKRAINE
The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition needs the immediate strong
support of all of its members and friends to contact members of the
House of Representatives about this matter.
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller and the
other leaders of the Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition urge everyone,
starting on Monday, December 12, to write and fax in their letters
immediately.
Hundreds of letters from Ukrainian-Americans and friends of Ukraine
need to be faxed now to the members of the U.S. House of
Representatives. This is very critical to the success of Ukraine's
graduation from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment yet this week. -30-
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
2. KEY RESOLUTION: H.R. 1053 BY CONGRESSMAN GERLACH
Ukraine's graduation from Jackson-Vanik Amendment
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - There are currently three resolutions in the House
regarding Jackson-Vanik graduation for Ukraine: H.R. 885, introduced
by Congressman Hyde of Illinois, Chairman of the House Committee on
International Relations; H.R. 1053, introduced by Congressman
Gerlach of Pennsylvania; and H.R. 1170, introduced by Congressman
Levin of Michigan.
While very grateful for the leadership that Congressmen Hyde and Levin
and their co-sponsors have shown on this issue, the Jackson-Vanik
Graduation Coalition recommends supporting H.R. 1053, introduced by
Congressman Gerlach.
It is the Coalition's understanding that the Gerlach bill would have
greatest receptivity in the House Ways and Means Committee. The
Coalition therefore urges those who support Jackson-Vanik graduation
for Ukraine to write (fax) or otherwise contact your Congressman and
urge that he or she co-sponsor H.R. 1053, introduced by Congressman
Gerlach.
H.R. 1053 ONLY HAS TWENTY-FOUR CO-SPONSORS NOW
Out of the 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives only
twenty-four have co-sponsored H.R. 1053. Out of the 26 members of
the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus only 6 have co-sponsored
H.R. 1053.
TWENTY-FOUR PRESENT CO-SPONSORS OF H.R. 1053
(1) Rep Andrews, Robert E. [NJ-1]
(2) Rep Bartlett, Roscoe G. [MD-6]
(3) Rep Boehlert, Sherwood [NY-24]
(4) Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5]
(5) Rep Crowley, Joseph [NY-7]
(6) Rep Dent, Charles W. [PA-15]
(7) Rep Diaz-Balart, Lincoln [FL-21]
(8) Rep English, Phil [PA-3]
(9) Rep Fitzpatrick, Michael G. [PA-8]
(10) Rep Harman, Jane [CA-36]
(11) Rep Hinchey, Maurice [NY-22]
(12) Rep Kaptur, Marcy [OH-9]
(13) Rep Kennedy, Mark R. [MN-6]
(14) Rep Langevin, James R. [RI-2]
(15) Rep McNulty, Michael R. [NY-21]
(16) Rep Peterson, John E. [PA-5]
(17) Rep Pitts, Joseph R. [PA-16]
(18) Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19]
(19) Rep Schwarz, John J.H. "Joe" [MI-7]
(20) Rep Shuster, Bill [PA-9]
(21) Rep Smith, Christopher H. [NJ-4]
(22) Rep Snyder, Vic [AR-2]
(23) Rep Weldon, Curt [PA-7]
(24) Rep Wexler, Robert [FL-19]
PLEASE TAKE ACTION NOW
Please take action now to quickly and substantially increase the number
of Members of the House who are co-sponsors of H.R. 1053. This is
very, very important to the success of Ukraine's graduation from the
Jackson-Vanik amendment this week. -30-
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in names and e-mail addresses for the AUR distribution list.
========================================================
3. KEY PERSON: CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS, CHAIRMAN
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Contact Information
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON- Contact information for Congressman Bill Thomas,
Chairman, U.S. House Ways & Means Committee, the key person
regarding Ukraine's graduation from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment.
Rep. William M. Thomas (R-CA)
(22nd District of California)
2208 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Ph. 202-225-2915; FAX: 202-225-8798
Also send letters to the Congressman's district offices in California.
Office of Congressman William M. Thomas
4100 Empire Drive, Suite 150
Bakersfield, California 93309
Ph. 661-327-3611; FAX: 661-637-0867
Office of Congressman William M. Thomas
5805 Capistrano Avenue, Suite C
Atascadero, CA 93422
Ph. 805-461-1034 - North County
Ph. 805-549-0390 - South County
FAX: 805-461-1323
You can also contact Rep. Thomas by going to his website at
http://billthomas.house.gov and submitting an e-mail message in
the Contact Bill section. These messages would go to a Staff
Assistant/Systems Administrator who would forward the message
to the appropriate Legislative Assistant.
WE RECOMMEND THAT LETTERS BE FAXED
Due to tight security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress
can be significantly delayed (up to two weeks or more); we therefore
recommend that letters be faxed.
Please contact Congressman Thomas. This is critical and essential
for Ukraine's graduation from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment this week.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in names and e-mail addresses for the AUR distribution list.
========================================================
4. KEY COMMITTEE: HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE
Key subcommittee: Trade Subcommittee
Contact Information
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - The contact information for members of the
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee is as follows. Please
contact the members of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee
first.
A. KEY SUBCOMMITTEE: Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee
Trade Subcommittee (Ways and Means)
Contact: Stephanie Lester
1104 Longworth HOB, Washington, DC 20515-6354
Phone: (202) 225-6649; Fax: (202) 226-0158
REPUBLICAN MEMBERS OF TRADE SUBCOMMITTEE:
(1) E. Clay Shaw, FL, Chairman
Phone: (202) 225-3026; Fax: (202) 225-8398
(2) Wally Herger, CA
Phone: (202) 225-3076; Fax: (202) 226-0852
(3) Phil English, PA
Phone: (202) 225-5406; Fax: (202) 225-3103
(4) Jim Nussle, IA
Phone: (202) 225-2911; Fax: (202) 225-9129
(5) Jerry Weller, IL
Phone: (202) 225-3635; Fax: (202) 225-3521
(6) Ron Lewis, KY
Phone: (202) 225-3501; Fax: (202) 226-2019
(7) Mark Foley, FL
Phone: (202) 225-5792; Fax: (202) 225-3132
(8) Kevin Brady, TX
Phone: (202) 225-4901; Fax: (202) 225-5524
(9) Thomas M. Reynolds, NY;
Phone: (202) 225-5265; Fax: (202) 225-5910
DEMOCRATS MEMBERS OF TRADE SUBCOMMITTEE
(1) Benjamin L. Cardin, MD
Phone: (202) 225-4016; Fax: (202) 225-9219
(2) Sander M. Levin, MI
Phone: 202-225-4961; Fax: 202-226-1033
(3) William J. Jefferson, LA
Phone: 202-225-6636; Fax: 202-225-1988
(4) John S. Tanner, TN
Phone: 202-225-4714; Fax: 202-225-1765
(5) John B. Larson, CT
Phone: 202-225-2265; Fax: 202-225-1031
(6) Jim McDermott, WA
Phone: 202-225-3106; Fax: 202-225-6197
B. REMAINING MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE WAYS AND
MEANS COMMITTEE
REPUBLICANS -----------
(1) Nancy L. Johnson, CT
Phone: 202-225-4476; Fax: 202-225-4488
(2) Jim McCrery, LA
Phone: 202-225-2777; Fax: 202-225-8039
(3) Dave Camp, MI
Phone: 202-225-3561; Fax: 202-225-9679
(4) Jim Ramstad, MN
Phone: 202-225-2871; Fax: 202-225-6351
(5) Sam Johnson, TX
Phone: 202-225-4201; Fax: 202-225-1485
(6) J.D. Hayworth, AZ
Phone: 202-225-2190; Fax: 202-225-3263
(7) Kenny C. Hulshof, MO
Phone: 202-225-2956; Fax: 202-225-5712
(8) Paul Ryan, WI
Phone: 202-225-3031; Fax: 202-225-3393
(9) Eric Cantor, VA
Phone: 202-225-2815; Fax: 202-225-0011
(10) John Linder, GA
Phone: 202-225-4272; Fax: 202-225-4696
(11) Bob Beauprez, CO
Phone: 202-225-2645; Fax: 202-225-5278
(12) Melissa A. Hart, PA
Phone: 202-225-2565; Fax: 202-226-2274
(13) Chris Chocola, IN
Phone: 202-225-3915; Fax: 202-225-6798
(14) Devin Nunes, CA
Phone: 202-225-2523; Fax: 202-225-3404
DEMOCRATS ----------
(1) Charles B. Rangel, NY
Phone: 202-225-4365; Fax: 202-225-0816
(2) Fortney Pete Stark, CA
Phone: 202-225-5056; Fax: 202-226-3805
(3) John Lewis, GA
Phone: 202-225-3801; Fax: 202-225-0351
(4) Richard E. Neal, MA
Phone: 202-225-5601; Fax: 202-225-8112
(5) Michael R. McNulty, NY
Phone: 202-225-5076; Fax: 202-225-5077
(6) Xavier Becerra, CA
Phone: 202-225-6235; Fax: 202-225-2202
(7) Lloyd Doggett, TX
Phone: 202-225-4865; Fax: 202-225-2947
(8) Earl Pomeroy, ND
Phone: 202-225-2611; fax: 202-226-0893
(9) Stephanie Tubbs Jones, OH
Phone: 202-225-7032; fax: 202-225-1339
(10) Mike Thompson, CA
Phone: 202-225-3311; Fax: 202-225-4335
(11) Rahm Emanuel, IL
Phone: 202-225-4061; Fax: 202-225-5603
PLEASE TAKE ACTION NOW
Due to tight security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress can
be significantly delayed (like up to two weeks or more); we therefore
recommend that letters be faxed.
Please take action now to quickly and substantially increase the number
of Members of the House who are co-sponsors of H.R. 1053. This is
very, very important to the success of Ukraine's graduation from the
Jackson-Vanik amendment this week. -30-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
5. KEY CONGRESSMAN: CONTACT YOUR OWN
Urge your U.S. Representative to co-sponsor H.R. 1053 now
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - It is very important to Ukraine graduating from
the Jackson-Vanik Amendment for you to immediately contact your
own U.S. Representative about becoming an immediate co-sponsor of
H.R. 1053.
HOW TO CONTACT YOUR CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE
[1] If you know who your Representative is you can call the U.S. Capitol
telephone operator at (202) 224-3121 and ask to be connected to their
office. The offices of all 435 Representatives and 100 Senators can be
contacted through this one telephone number.
You can ask to talk with your Representative's appropriate staff person
who handles Jackson-Vanik legislation. This is also one way to obtain
the fax number you need.
[2] You can also find your Representatives contact information by
selecting their name from the Representative web sites list at the House
of Representatives website www.house.gov.
Once you select your Representative click "go" and you will be redirected
to your Representative's website. The contact information for your
Representative's Washington, DC and district offices will be posted on
the site. It is important to find the fax number.
[3] If you do not know who your Representative is visit the House of
Representatives website at www.house.gov. To find your Representative
on the House website type your ZIP+4 code in the appropriate boxes and
click "go".
HOW TO FIND YOUR ZIP+4 CODE
If you do not know your ZIP+4 code visit the United States Postal Service
website at www.usps.com. Click on the "Find a Zip Code" section and enter
your address, city, and state information, then click "submit".
WE RECOMMEND THAT LETTERS BE FAXED
Due to tight security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress can
be significantly delayed (like up to two weeks or more); we therefore
recommend that letters be faxed. -30-
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in a letter-to-the-editor today. Let us hear from you.
========================================================
6. KEY MEMBERS: UKRAINIAN CONGRESSIONAL CAUCUS
MEMBERS WHO HAVE NOT YET CO-SPONSORED H.R. 1053
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition is also
urging people to contact House members of the Ukrainian Congressional
Caucus who have not yet agreed to co-sponsor H.R. 1053.
We feel there is a high probability that these Members would, if
contacted by enough people, agree to co-sponsor H.R. 1053,
introduced by Congressman Gerlach.
There are only twenty-six members of the Ukrainian Congressional
Caucus. Of the twenty-six only six of them, Representatives Curt
Weldon, Roscoe Bartlett, Marcy Kaptur, Michael McNulty, Chris
Smith and Maurice Hinchey have presently signed on as co-sponsors
of H.R. 1053.
PLEASE CONTACT THE FOLLOWING 20 REPRESENTATIVES
The list of the twenty members of the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus,
with contact information, who have NOT yet co-sponsored H.R. 1053 is
shown below.
1. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI)
Contact: Jeff Ziarko
Phone: (202) 225-4961; Fax: (202) 226-1033
2. Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA)
Contact: Doug Campbell
Phone: (202) 225-4695; Fax: (202) 225-3196
3. Rep. Corrine Brown (D-FL)
Contact: David Simon
Phone: (202) 225-0123; Fax: (202) 225-2256
4. Rep. Sherrod Brown (D-OH)
Contact: Brett Gibson
Phone: (202) 225-3401; Fax: (202) 225-2266
5. Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL)
Contact: Evan Decresce
Phone: (202) 225-5006; Fax: (202) 225-5641
6. Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX)
Contact: Oscar Quinones
Phone: (202) 225-4865; Fax: (202) 225-2947
7. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY)
Contact: Sasha Suderow
Phone: (202) 225-2464; Fax: (202) 225-5513
8. Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-IL)
Contact: Joan Kato
Phone: (202) 225-8203; Fax: (202) 225-7810
9. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI)
Contact: Craig Albright
Phone: (202) 225-5802; Fax: (202) 226-2356
10. Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-OH)
Contact: Samantha Stinney
Phone: (202) 225-5871; Fax: 9202) 225-5745
11. Rep. James Langevin (D-RI)
Contact: Brian Daniels
Phone: (202) 225-2735; Fax: (202) 225-5976
12. Rep. Tom Lantos (D-CA)
Mr. Lantos is the minority leader on the House Committee on
International Relations.His office refers Jackson-Vanik type
issues to the International Relations Subcommitte on Europe
and Emerging Threats
Maj. Staff Dir.: Richard Mereu
Min. Staff Dir.: Jonathan Katz
Phone: (202) 226-7820; Fax: (202) 226-2722
13. Rep. Nita Lowey (D-NY)
Contact: Beth Tritter
Phone: (202) 225-6506; Fax: (202) 225-0546
14. Rep. Robert Menendez (D-NJ)
Contact: Jessica Lewis
Phone: (202) 225-7919; Fax: (202) 226-6025
15. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ)
Contact: Jim Delmonico
Phone: (202) 225-4671; Fax: (202) 225-9665
16. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ)
Contact: Susan Quatron
Phone: (202) 225-5751; Fax: (202) 225-5782
17. Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
Contact: Mike Sheehy
Phone: (202) 225-4965; Fax: (202) 225-8259
18. Rep. Steven Rothman (D-NJ)
Contact: Shelly Stoneman
Phone: (202) 225-5061; Fax: (202) 225-5851
19. Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA)
Contact: Zahava Goldman
Phone: (202) 225-3976; Fax: (202) 225-4099
20. Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-NY)
Contact: Joshua Fa-Hurvitz
Phone: (202) 225-6616; Fax: (202) 226-7253
Please contact these twenty U.S. Representatives who are members
of the Ukrainian Congressional Caucus and urge them to immediately
become co-sponsors of H.R. 1053.
WE RECOMMEND LETTERS BE FAXED
Due to tight security/screening requirements, regular mail to Congress
can be significantly delayed (up to two weeks or more); we therefore
recommend that letters be faxed. -30-
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
7. JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION MEMBERSHIP LIST
Coalition membership now over 230
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Ambassador Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller, Co-Chair
Washington, D.C., Monday, December 12, 2005
WASHINGTON - The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition has now
grown to over 230 U.S. and international organizations, businesses and
interest groups!
The membership list now has on it several large corporations such as
AES Corporation, Boeing Company, Cardinal Resources, Cargill Inc.,
Case New Holland, Coca-Cola Company, John Deere, Kraft Foods
Inc., Westinghouse Electric Corporation and the U.S. Chamber
of Commerce and the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine
(AMCHAM).
The Coalition, which was launched in October, supports Ukraine’s
graduation from the provisions of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment. The
Amendment, passed in 1974, imposed trade restrictions on the Soviet
Union (and its successors) in response to poor human rights practices,
particularly restrictions on the emigration of religious minorities.
Ukraine is a success story for Jackson-Vanik; the country has built a
strong record of open emigration and created conditions for religious
minorities to practice their beliefs freely. Ukraine’s record has been
recognized by both Presidents Clinton and Bush.
The U.S. Senate passed Senate bill S. 632 on November 18 to graduate
Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik. The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
now urges that the House of Representatives take similar action.
Ukraine’s record merits graduation, which would be an important signal
of U.S. support for a democratic Ukraine.
TO JOIN THE COALITION AND SUPPORT UKRAINE
The Coalition is still accepting members. What business or
organization can you add to the list? Please contact us. The Coalition
would like to have over 300 members. Your assistance is needed now.
To join the Coalition and support Ukraine’s graduation from Jackson-
Vanik,, e-mail JVGC@usukraine.org or call 202 347 4264. For more
information on the Coalitions efforts and the history of the Jackson-Vanik
Amendment visit the Coalition’s WEBSITE at
http://www.usukraine.org/jvgc.shtml.
JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION MEMBERSHIP LIST
230+ Members, Monday, December 12, 2005
ABEA ltd (www.go2kiev.com)
ACDI/VOCA
Adams and Reese, LLP
AES Corporation
Affiliated Appraisers
American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine (AMCHAM)
American Jewish Committee
American Jewish Congress
American Ukrainian Medical Foundation
Americans For Human Rights in Ukraine
Andrew J. Futey & Associates
Arbor View Dental Clinic, Mt. Prospect , IL
Aspect Energy, LLC
Association for the Democratization of Ukraine
Association of American Youth of Ukrainian Descent- ODUM
Atlantic Group, Ltd.
A W and Sons Inc
Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz
Berdyansk Reapers
B'nai B'rith International
Boeing (The Boeing Company)
Bolshoi Agrotechnica Machina (BAM) America
Borough of Roselle Park, New Jersey
BRAMA, Inc.
Breakthrough to People Network, Inc.
Breeze Ventures Management
BSI Group
Buckner Orphan Care International
Canada-Ukraine Foundation
Cape Point Capital Inc.
Case New Holland, Inc.
Cardinal Resources PLC
Cargill Inc.
Center for US-Ukrainian Relations, NYC
Chadbourne & Parke, LLC
Chopivsky Family Foundation
Coca-Cola (The Coca Cola Company)
Conlan & Associates
Council of Ukrainian-American Organizations of Greater Hartford
Crestway Manor Apts. LTD
Customs, Trade & Risk Management Services, Ltd.
David D. Sweere & Sons International, Ltd.
Democrats Abroad- Ukraine Chapter
Diaspora Enterprise
Dr. James Mace Holodomor-Genocide Memorial Fund
Drake Group Holding Corporation
Draper Fisher Jurvetson NEXUS
Dutko Worldwide
ECdata, Inc.
Excelsio Communications
Exquisite Elixirs, Inc.
Eye Center of Delaware
Floral Designs by Katya, Chicago
"Freedom" Ukrainian-American Publishing House
GN Associates
Gold Coast Construction
Gold Coast Properties, Inc.
Gongadze Foundation
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Heller & Rosenblatt Law Firm
Heritage Foundation of 1st Security Federal Savings Bank, Chicago
Hollywood Trident Foundation
Holodomor Survivors, Inc.
Inco Americas
Independent Voters for Equal Education & Opportunity
International Republican Institute (IRI)
International Ukrainian Genocide-Holodomor Committee
Irondequoit-Poltava Sister Cities Committee
ISTIL (Ukraine)
ISTIL Group Inc.
Ivan Bahrianyj Foundation, Arlington Heights, IL
John A. Wood, Associates Inc.
John Deere (Deere & Company)
John Wood Ministries, Inc.
Kalik Lewin Law Firm
Kiev-Atlantic Ukraine
Kobzar Society, Ltd.
Kraft Foods, Inc.
LPL Financial Services, Inc.
Krislaty Realty Investments
Kvazar-Micro Corp.
L. B. Lyons & Company
Largo Asset Management, LLC
Larry M. Walker Ministries, Inc.
Lemberg Unternehmensberatung, GmbH
Light of Crimea Foundation
MACOIL & Gas International
Maple Investments
Media Finance Management, LLC
Medical Relief Charity Fund
Melitopol Tractor Hydro Units Plant
Meta
Ministering to Ministers Foundation, Inc.
MJA Asset Management, LLC
Moye Handling Systems, Inc.
NAS Global Trade Ltd.
National Conference on Soviet Jewry
National Tribune
Nealon and Associates, P.C.
New Millennium Strategies
New Roots Restoration
North Winnipeg Credit Union Limited, Winnipeg, MB
Nuclear Information and Resource Service
Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine, Inc.
Organization for the Rebirth of Ukraine
Paco Links International
Parents Targeting Achievement
Parents Targeting Opportunity
Perekhid Media Limited (Ukraine)
Perekhid Outdoor (Ukraine)
Perekhid Business Publishing (Ukraine)
Piedmont Trading, Inc.
Plast Ukrainian Youth Organization
Poltava Confectionery
Pro Trade Group
Pro-W International Corporation
Raymond Linsenmayer & Associates
Reut Consulting
Richard W. Murphy Consulting Group
Ring Publishing (Ukraine)
RUKH-Ukrainian Movement to aid Democracy in Ukraine, Chicago
Russian-Ukrainian Legal Group, P.A.
Russin & Vecchi LLC, Moscow
Salans Law Firm
Sevastopol Shipyard
Shevchenko Scientific Society
Sigma Venture, Inc.
SigmaBleyzer Emerging Markets Private Equity Investment Group
Siguler Guff & Company, LLC
Skarabey Group LLC
Society for Fostering Jewish Ukrainian Relations
Softline
Solid Team, LLC
St. Andrew's Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Bloomingdale, IL
St. Nicholas' Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral - B.M.V. Sodality, Chicago
"St. Sophia" Religious Association of Ukrainian Catholics, Inc. USA
SUM Ukrainian Youth Organization
Sweet Analysis Services, Inc.
Techinvest
TEREX Corporation
Town of Irondequoit, New York
The Action Ukraine Report (AUR)
The Bleyzer Foundation
The International Medical Education Foundation, Inc.
The PBN Company
The School of the Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble
The Washington Group
TransNational Resource, LLC
UkrAgroAssets, LLC
UkrAgroSystems, LLC
Ukraine-United States Business Council
Ukrainian Academic and Professional Association
Ukrainian Academy of Arts and Sciences in the USA
Ukrainian American Bar Association
Ukrainian American Civil Liberties Association
Ukrainian American Coordinating Council
Ukrainian-American Environmental Association
Ukrainian-American Freedom Foundation
Ukrainian American Senior Citizens Association
Ukrainian American Soccer Association, Inc.
Ukrainian American Sports Center "Tryzub"
Ukrainian Association in Austria
Ukrainian Citizens International Association
Ukrainian Community Action Network, Chicago
Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, Illinois Branch
Ukrainian Cossack Brotherhood, Chicago
Ukrainian Credit Union Development Committee
Ukrainian Cultural Center, Fairfax, VA
Ukrainian Cultural & Humanitarian Institute
Ukrainian Development Company, LLC
Ukrainian Education & Cultural Center
Ukrainian Engineer's Society of America, Inc. Philadelphia Chapter
Ukrainian Federal Credit Union
Ukrainian Federation of America
Ukrainian Fraternal Organization
Ukrainian Genocide Famine Foundation, Chicago
Ukrainian Gold Cross, Inc.
Ukrainian Holodomor Exhibition Committee
Ukrainian Human Rights Committee
Ukrainian Institute of America
Ukrainian Medical Association of North America
Ukrainian Museum-Archives, Cleveland, Ohio
Ukrainian National Credit Union Association
Ukrainian National Association
Ukrainian National Museum of Chicago
Ukrainian National Women's League of America, Inc.
Ukrainian National Women's League of America, Regional Councils:
Detroit, New York, Central New York, Northern New York, Ohio,
New Jersey, Chicago, New England, Philadelphia;
Branches at Large: Phoenix, Atlanta, Miami, Pittsburgh, Denver,
North Port, Washington D.C., San Jose, Los Angeles, Houston,
Tucson, St. Petersburg
Ukrainian Selfreliance New England Federal Credit Union
Ukrainian Wave Radio Program, Chicago
UKRUSA International Ltd.
United Software Corporation
United Ukrainian American Organizations of Greater New York
United Ukrainian Organizations of Greater Cleveland (UZO)
Usability Matrix Corporation
U. S. Chamber of Commerce
U.S. Civilian Research & Development Foundation (CRDF)
U.S.- Ukraine Foundation
Vantage Enterprises, L.L.C.
Venable LLP
VIKO Corporation
Volia Cable
Volia Software, Inc.
Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble
Westinghouse Electric Corporation
Wilton S. Tifft Photography
WJ Group of Agricultural Companies
WJ Hopper & Co., Limited
World Federation of Ukrainian Medical Associations
World Federation of Ukrainian Women's Organizations, Financial Committee
World League of Ukrainian Political Prisoners
www.ArtUkraine.com Information Service (ARTUIS)
Zaporizhya Meat Processing
Zen Architects
For more information on the Coalitions efforts and the history of the
Jackson-Vanik Amendment and for the latest membership list visit the
Coalition’s WEBSITE at http://www.usukraine.org/jvgc.shtml. -30-
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
NOTE: Some of the information in articles one through seven above
was researched and prepared on behalf of the Jackson-Vanik Graduation
Coalition with the assistance of The Action Ukraine Report (AUR)
Information Service, Morgan Williams, Publisher and Editor, and
Matthew Popadiuk, Assistant to the Editor.
========================================================
Send in names and e-mail addresses for the AUR distribution list.
========================================================
8. SEC OF STATE RICE WRITES CONG CHARLES RANGEL THAT
ADMINISTRATION SUPPORTS UKRAINE'S GRADUATION
FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
Office of the Secretary of State
U.S. Department of State
Washington, D.C., November 8, 2005
THE SECRETARY OF STATE
WASHINGTON
November 8, 2005
Dear Mr. Rangel:
The Administration strongly supports appropriate legislation that would
authorize the President to terminate the application of Title IV of the
Trade Act of 1974 (the Jackson-Vanik Amendment), with respect to Ukraine,
and to extend permanent normal trade relations treatment to products of that
country.
Since 1993, every administration has found Ukraine in compliance with the
freedom of emigration criteria on which the Jackson-Vanik Amendment is
based. The Bush Administration has consistently supported the termination
of Jackson-Vanik with respect to Ukraine.
In view of the dramatic democratic transformation that Ukraine has
undergone in the past year and the efforts of the Yushchenko government to
complete Ukraine's accession to the World Trade Organization and to
integrate more closely with trans-Atlantic institutions, it is important
that Congress act to lift Jackson-Vanik.
The success of Ukrainian democracy is vital not only for the people of
Ukraine, but also for the region as a whole. Congressional action to lift
Jackson-Vanik and extend permanent normal trade relations would send a
strong signal of support to Ukraine at a critical juncture.
This support is not intended to minimize the importance of outstanding trade
issues between our two countries. The State Department will continue to
support the work of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to ensure
that Ukraine's eventual entry into the WTO is consistent with WTO
requirements and benefits American businesses, farmers, and ranchers, and
promotes economic prosperity and rule of law in Ukraine.
Sincerely,
Condoleezza Rice
The Honorable Charles B. Rangel,
House of Representatives.
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
Send in names and e-mail addresses for the AUR distribution list.
========================================================
9. UKRAINE-UNITED STATES BUSINESS COUNCIL URGES WAYS
AND MEANS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN THOMAS TO LEAD HOUSE
IN GRADUATING UKRAINE FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
NEWS RELEASE: Ukraine-United States Business Council
Washington, D.C., Thursday, December 8, 2005
WASHINGTON - The Ukraine-United States Business Council today
released the text of its letter to Ways and Means Committee Chairman
Bill Thomas urging his leadership to pass in the House of Representatives
legislation ending application of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment to Ukraine
and extending permanent normal trade relations treatment to products of
Ukraine.
Council President, Dr. Susanne S. Lotarski, emphasized in her letter that
Ukraine fully meets the criteria established by the Jackson-Vanik
Amendment for extension of permanent normal trade relations.
She noted that, as active traders and investors in the Ukrainian market, the
members of the Ukraine-United States Business Council see this as a no
cost way to remove an irritant in bilateral commercial relations and send a
message of hope and support for Ukraine's efforts to secure democracy,
build a vibrant market economy, and integrate into the Euro-Atlantic
community of nations.
TEXT OF LETTER:
December 7, 2005
Honorable Bill Thomas, Chairman
Ways and Means Committee
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC
Dear Chairman Thomas,
The Ukraine-United States Business Council, founded in 1995, requests
your leadership in passing legislation in the House of Representatives
now to terminate application of Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974 (the
Jackson-Vanik Amendment) with respect to Ukraine, and to extend
permanent normal trade relations treatment to products of Ukraine.
Ukraine fully meets the criteria established by the Jackson-Vanik
Amendment for extension of permanent normal trading relations.
Ukraine has a well-established record of open emigration, recognized
by U.S. Presidents of both parties, and has created conditions in
which religious minorities can freely practice their faith.
A year ago, the people of Ukraine showed great courage and withstood
many hardships to advance democracy in their country. They still face
many difficulties to secure their democracy, build a vibrant market
economy, and integrate into the Euro-Atlantic community of nations. On
this first anniversary of the Orange Revolution, we can send them an
important message of hope and support by graduating Ukraine from
Jackson-Vanik and extending PNTR.
With the Senate having passed S. 632, House passage of similar legislation
would enable President Bush to graduate Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik and
fulfill one of the key U.S. commitments from his April 4 Joint Statement
with President Yushchenko.
As active traders and investors in the Ukrainian market, the members of the
Ukraine-United States Business Council fully support graduating Ukraine
from Jackson-Vanik and extending permanent normal trading relations to
Ukraine. Doing so will remove a symbolic irritant in the bilateral
commercial relationship, with no economic or other costs to the United
States.
We urge your support for early enactment of such legislation.
Sincerely,
Susanne S. Lotarski
President
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jackson - Vanik Graduation Coalition
NOTE: The Ukraine - United States Business Council and a
considerable number of its individual member companies are
members of the Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition. Ambassador
Steven Pifer and Ambassador William Miller are co-chairs of the
Coalition. To join the Coalition and support Ukraine’s graduation
from Jackson-Vanik,, e-mail JVGC@usukraine.org or call 202-347-
4264. For more information on the Coalitions efforts and the history
of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment visit the Coalition’s WEBSITE
at http://www.usukraine.org/jvgc.shtml.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ukraine - United States Business Council, Washington, D.C.
President: Susanne S. Lotarski, Ph.D.
Executive Committee: Chairman, Morgan Williams, SigmaBleyzer;
Andrew E. Bej, ALICO; Shannon S. S. Herzfeld, Archer Daniels
Midland (ADM); Michael Kirst, Westinghouse Electric Company;
John W. Rauber, Jr., Deere & Company; Van Yeutter, Cargill.
Secretary/Treasurer: John C. Stephens, Cape Point Capital.
General Counsel: Jack I. Heller, Esq., Heller & Rosenblatt.
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
10. JACKSON-VANIK GRADUATION COALITION CO-CHAIRMEN'S
LETTER TO CONGRESSMAN BILL THOMAS
Chairman, U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Letter to Chairman Bill Thomas, R-CA
U.S. House Ways and Means Committee
Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition
Washington, D.C. Wednesday, November 30, 2005
November 30, 2005, Washington, D.C.
Dear Chairman Thomas,
On the first anniversary of Ukraine's Orange Revolution, and with the Senate
having passed S. 632, we are writing to request your action to pass
legislation in the House of Representatives to graduate Ukraine from the
Jackson-Vanik Amendment. The Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition has
united organizations from across the country in support of the immediate
graduation of Ukraine from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment.
Ukraine has fully met the requirements of Jackson-Vanik, in particular by
its exemplary record of open emigration. This has been recognized by
President Clinton, who found Ukraine to be in full compliance with
Jackson-Vanik in 1997, and President Bush, who called for Ukraine's
graduation in his April 4, 2005 joint statement with President Yushchenko.
President Yushchenko received a unanimous ovation during a Joint Session
of the U.S. Congress on April 6, 2005, when he remarked "we seek a new
atmosphere of trust, frankness and partnership. I am calling upon you to
[end] the Jackson-Vanik Amendment. Please tear down this wall."
We have just returned from Ukraine, where we heard concerns from a
number of Ukrainian political leaders that lack of action by the United
States with regard to Jackson-Vanik could be seen as a failure of
Yushchenko's pro-Western policy.
With the upcoming March 2006 parliamentary elections in Ukraine,
graduation from Jackson-Vanik would be understood by the people of
Ukraine as a compelling sign of U.S. support for the continued development
of a democratic market economy and further integration of Ukraine into
Europe.
Our broad coalition, which currently includes over 65 Ukrainian-American
and Jewish-American groups, business organizations and NGOs, urges
immediate Congressional action to accomplish Ukraine's graduation. We
very much hope for your support.
Sincerely,
Steven Pifer, William Green Miller, Co-Chairman
[Former U.S. Ambassador's to Ukraine]
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
11. CENTRAL AND EAST EUROPEAN COALITION ENDORSES HOUSE
MEASURE TO REVOKE JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT FOR UKRAINE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA)
New York, New York, Friday, December 9, 2005
NEW YORK - In a December 9 letter to the House of Representatives Ways
and Means Committee Chairman William Thomas (22-CA), the Central and
East European Coalition (CEEC) urges support of HR1053, which would
repeal the Jackson-Vanik amendment for Ukraine and grant it permanent
normal trade relations with the United States.
By encouraging the favorable consideration of H.R. 1053, the Central and
East European Coalition is putting the weight of 18 national, grassroots
organizations and more than 22 million Americans of Central and East
European heritage behind the House bill.
The member organizations of the Central and East European Coalition
constitute Americans of Armenian, Belarusan, Bulgarian, Czech, Estonian,
Georgian, Hungarian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Romanian, Slovak, and
Ukrainian heritage, and thus represent a broad base of support for the
measure.
The Jackson-Vanik Amendment to the 1974 Trade Act prevented the
normalization of trade relations with "non-market economies," but the
sweeping economic reforms undertaken in Ukraine since it regained
independence in 1991, and especially after the Orange Revolution of 2004,
have rendered the restrictions antiquated.
Following the U.S. Senate's repeal of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment on
November 18th, Representative Jim Gerlach (R-PA) has introduced H.R.
1053, a bipartisan measure in the House of Representatives aimed at
graduating Ukraine from and granting it permanent normal trade relations
status.
"The elimination of this relic of Soviet-era politics," the Central and East
European Coalition's letter reads, "will benefit American business in
Ukraine, as well as increase trade with that country." As Ukraine pursues
World Trade Organization accession and European integration, and the
United States seeks to foster new democracies, the repeal of the Jackson-
Vanik Amendment takes on considerable global significance.
Given the recent statements of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on the
growing strategic partnership with Ukraine, the actions of the U.S. Senate
in passing the repeal of the Jackson-Vanik amendment, and the support of the
Central and East European Coalition, H.R. 1053 has gained more prominence.
Repealing the Jackson-Vanik Amendment would be of clear benefit to Ukraine,
as the CEEC's letter to Chairman Thomas states, "Ukraine is moving in the
right direction, though sustained support from the United States Congress
will assist Ukraine down its arduous path."
The letter was signed on behalf of the CEEC member organizations by Nino
Japaridze, President - Georgian Association in the US; Lya M. Karm, M.D.,
Chair - Joint Baltic American National Committee, Inc; and, Alice Kipel,
from the Belarusan-American Association.
Michael Sawkiw, Jr., expressed the Ukrainian Congress Committee of
America's (UCCA) appreciation to the CEEC for their support of HR1053:
"This is a very sensitive issue for Ukraine and one that needs to be
resolved quickly for the betterment of US-Ukrainian bilateral relations. The letter
from the CEEC, as well as individual letters from respective CEEC member
organizations, is both helpful and truly appreciated. We thank our Central
and East European colleagues for their support."
The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America and the Ukrainian National
Association were founding members of the Central and East European
Coalition.
The other Coalition members include: the American Latvian Association, the
Armenian Assembly of America, the Belarusan-American Association, the
Bulgarian Institute for Research and Analysis, the Congress of Romanian
Americans, the Czechoslovak National Council of America, the Estonian
American National Council, the Georgian Association in the USA, the
Hungarian American Coalition, the Joint Baltic American National Committee,
the Lithuanian-American Community, the Lithuanian American Council, the
National Federation of American Hungarians, the Polish American Congress,
the Slovak League of America, and the US-Baltic Foundation. -30-
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact: Matthew Omolesky, Ukrainian Congress Committee of America
203 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10003; tel: (212) 228-6840;
fax: (212) 254-4721; e-mail: ucca@ucca.org; Web: http://www.ucca.org
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[return to index] [The Action Ukraine Report (AUR) Monitoring Service]
========================================================
12. URGENT APPEAL: SUPPORT NEEDED NOW FOR HR1053 BY
REP. JIM GERLACH FOR SUCCESSFUL REPEAL OF THE
JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT FOR UKRAINE BY U.S. HOUSE
UPDATE: Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS)
Washington, D.C., Friday, December 9, 2005
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS)
has been diligently working on the Jackson-Vanik issue for over four years.
Our efforts have finally borne fruit...in wake of the recent successful repeal
of the Jackson-Vanik amendment in the Senate, the House of Representatives
is seeking passage of their bill.
UNIS is actively coordinating its efforts with the Congressional Ukrainian
Caucus to support HR1053, introduced by Rep. Jim Gerlach (R-PA).
Thanks to our efforts, as of December 7, 2005, twenty-three (23)
congressional co-sponsors have signed onto the bill (sponsors listed
below).
HR1053 CO-SPONSORS:
Rep Andrews, Robert E. [NJ-1]; Rep Bartlett, Roscoe G. [MD-6]; Rep Boehlert,
Sherwood [NY-24]; Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5]; Rep Crowley, Joseph [NY-7]; Rep
Dent, Charles W. [PA-15]; Rep Diaz-Balart, Lincoln [FL-21]; Rep English,
Phil [PA-3]; Rep Fitzpatrick, Michael G. [PA-8]; Rep Harman, Jane [CA-36];
Rep Kaptur, Marcy [OH-9]; Rep Kennedy, Mark R. [MN-6]; Rep Langevin, James
R. [RI-2]; Rep McNulty, Michael R. [NY-21]; Rep Peterson, John E. [PA-5];
Rep Pitts, Joseph R. [PA-16]; Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19]; Rep Schwarz,
John J.H. "Joe" [MI-7]; Rep Shuster, Bill [PA-9]; Rep Smith, Christopher H.
[NJ-4]; Rep Snyder, Vic [AR-2]; Rep Weldon, Curt [PA-7]; Rep Wexler, Robert
[FL-19]
We are in the homestretch, therefore, UNIS urges you to send letters to your
respective Members of Congress requesting their support for HR1053 !!!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GRADUATE UKRAINE FROM JACKSON-VANIK AMENDMENT
LET OUR VOICES BE HEARD!!!
ACTION ITEM: Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS)
Washington, D.C., Thursday, December 1, 2005
WASHINGTON - The recent "Orange Revolution" in Ukraine has
transformed the political landscape in that country. Calls for a re-
examination of U.S.-Ukrainian bilateral relations is necessary, and
warranted.
One of the more immediate issues is the revocation of the Jackson-Vanik
amendment to the 1974 Trade Act, which limits trade with countries that
do not allow free emigration of its citizens. Ukraine "inherited" the
amendment when it re-established its independence in 1991.
In early April 2005 in an address to a Joint Session of the United States
Congress, President Yushchenko reiterated the need to repeal the
Jackson-Vanik amendment and bring that chapter of Ukraine's history to
a close.
Recent passage of a bill in the United States Senate (S632) has prompted
efforts in the House of Representatives by Rep. Jim Gerlach (R-PA) to
"graduate" Ukraine from the Jackson-Vanik amendment.
The Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS) requests all Ukrainian
Americans and friends of Ukraine to contact their U.S. representatives and
urge them to support Rep. Gerlach's bill HR1053.
Attached, please find a sample letter to send to your U.S. representative.
Sample letters may be e-mailed directly to your representative at
http://www.house.gov/writerep/. Should you have any questions, please feel
free to contact the UNIS office by phone at (202) 547-0018 or via email at
unis@ucca.org.
SAMPLE LETTER
The Honorable (Name)
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Representative (Name):
As a Ukrainian American residing in your district, I urge you to support
HR1053, a bill introduced by Rep. Jim Gerlach to "graduate" Ukraine from
the Jackson-Vanik amendment of the 1974 Trade Act. This amendment is
a relic of Cold War-era politics.
Each Administration since 1992 has certified that Ukraine has met all
requirements stipulated in the law. Furthermore, as recent as November 18,
2005, the United States Senate passed by unanimous consent S632 to repeal
the Jackson-Vanik amendment for Ukraine.
In the last few months, the world has witnessed Ukraine make a firm
commitment to a democratic future and integration into the Euro-Atlantic
community. It is essential that the U.S. Congress support the goodwill of
the Ukrainian people and attest in providing greater bilateral relations.
Repealing the Jackson-Vanik amendment, as was accomplished in the United
States Senate, is a critical step that will demonstrate to the Ukrainian
government that the United States welcomes the changes they implemented
and trusts in the future of Ukraine. I urge you to support HR1053 and thus
to facilitate the democratic and economic development of Ukraine.
Sincerely,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michael Sawkiw, Jr., President, Ukrainian Congress Committee
of America (UCCA), Washington Office: Ukrainian National
Information Service, 311 Massachusetts Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002, tel: (202) 547-0018, fax: (202) 543-5502
e-mail: unis@ucca.org, Web at: http://www.ucca.org
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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13. "A STEP TOWARD NORMALCY"
COMMENTARY: By Peter Savodnik
Political editor of the Hill newspaper
The Wall Street Journal Online (Europe)
New York, NY, Thursday, September 29, 2005
WASHINGTON -- In its quest to democratize the planet, Washington has
invaded countries, funded fighters, convened high-level summits and pushed
transcontinental trade pacts. Oddly, it has yet to "graduate" Ukraine from
an antiquated human-rights measure that, if left in place, could slow the
spread of freedom in the former Soviet Union.
The 1974 Jackson-Vanik amendment, designed primarily to restrict Soviet
exports to the U.S., remains a canker sore in U.S.-Ukrainian relations. Most
every senior Ukrainian official, from President Viktor Yushchenko to Foreign
Minister Boris Tarasyuk, both of whom traveled to the United States this
month, has called for lifting it.
This emphasis on Jackson-Vanik might seem to be misplaced; Ukraine gets
annual waivers from the provision, so Ukrainians' access to U.S. markets is
not curtailed. But it has political and symbolic meaning for a nation still
struggling to overcome its Soviet past.
There is a widespread feeling among Ukrainians that their country cannot be
considered "normal" as long as this remnant of the old days lingers.
Lifting Jackson-Vanik would cost the U.S. nothing. President George W. Bush
has signaled support for taking action. So, too, have foreign-policy mavens,
Republicans and Democrats alike, on Capitol Hill, as well as Sovietologists
and Russia scholars at the State Department and the National Security
Council.
So what's the holdup? Simply put, American democracy is getting in the way
of democracy overseas. Parochial congressional interests -- involving
everyone from chicken farmers to movie stars -- are stalling efforts,
spearheaded by Republican Sen. John McCain and Rep. Henry Hyde and
Democratic Rep. Tom Lantos, to lift Jackson-Vanik from Ukraine.
While most everyone who cares about geopolitics and democracy in the
former Soviet Union backs graduating Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik, some
members of Congress have found the provision useful when bargaining
with Kiev and other former Soviet capitals such as Moscow.
Case in point: In 2002, after Russia and Ukraine imposed quotas on U.S.
poultry imports, Democratic Sen. Joseph Biden rescinded his support for
lifting Jackson-Vanik.
Similarly, the Motion Picture Association wants authorities in Ukraine to
protect intellectual property rights. American oil and gas executives want
access to Ukraine's energy markets. And bankers, lawyers, hotel owners,
car manufacturers, venture capitalists and other potential investors want
Ukraine's banking, torts and law-enforcement systems cleaned up so they
meet Western standards of transparency and accountability.
All of these groups have, directly and indirectly, led lawmakers to take a
cautious stance on lifting Jackson-Vanik. Their demands are reasonable,
and Ukraine would be wise to listen to Western officials seeking to bring
the ex-Soviet republic into the liberal fold. Nor can Sen. Biden and other
lawmakers be blamed for representing the interests of their constituents.
But delaying an end to Jackson-Vanik -- for whatever reason -- would hinder
the democratic transition by depriving Mr. Yushchenko of a much-needed
political win and, possibly, complicating Ukraine's efforts to be admitted
to the World Trade Organization.
This would be an ironic twist. Jackson-Vanik was never intended to be a
bargaining chip for opening markets to U.S. business. It was meant to punish
the Soviets for restricting Jewish emigration, and it did so by barring
Moscow from gaining "most favored nation" status. In other words,
Jackson-Vanik sought a human-rights end via trade-related means.
Never mind that the country Jackson-Vanik was intended for no longer exists.
(A similar argument convinced many Republicans a few years back that the
U.S. should pull out of the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.) What matters is
that Jackson-Vanik, once meant to foster progress, now runs the distinct
risk of impeding it.
Even Jewish groups concerned that Ukraine has yet to confront its past --
including support of many Ukrainians during World War II for Hitler's
holocaust and the pogroms of the czarist and Soviet eras -- want
Jackson-Vanik lifted now. Despite legitimate reservations, these groups
recognize that it's time to take this step.
Consider the American Jewish Committee. An Aug. 2 letter from David Harris,
the AJC's executive director, to all 535 members of Congress states: "The
Jewish community has come a long way since the end of communism in 1991
and the re-establishment of Ukrainian independence....To be sure, some
difficult issues remain.
First, there is still work to be done by the government in the matter of
restitution of Jewish communal property. And second, manifestations of
anti-Semitism, though condemned by the government and by no means
unique to Ukraine in today's world, remain a matter of concern. Even so,
the current vitality of the Jewish community is a remarkable sight to
behold."
Referring to a recent trip taken by AJC representatives to Ukraine, Mr.
Harris concludes: "One issue in particular on the minds of those officials
with whom we met is the hope for graduation from the Jackson-Vanik
Amendment, a goal we fully share."
Graduatin
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