Congressional Letters, Statements, and Resolutions

"We share with you a firm commitment for U.S. policy to consolidate Colombia's democratic institutions, increase respect for human rights and strengthen the rule of law... We write to call your attention to increased reports alleging extrajudicial executions of civilians by members of the Colombian armed forces." Read the full letter here (PDF).

List of senators who signed the letter:

Chris Dodd (D-CT)
Russ Feingold (D-WI)
Barbara Boxer (D-CA)
Herb Kohl (D-WI)
Tom Harkin (D-IA)
Richard Durbin (D-IL)
Barbara Mikulski (D-MD)
Ted Kennedy (D-MA)
Bob Casey (D-PA)
Tim Johnson (D-SD)
Bernard Sanders (I-VT)
John Kerry (D-MA)
Sherrod Brown (D-OH)
Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)

"Colombia remains the most dangerous place in the world to be a part of a labor union...Strong, affirmative actions must be taken to protect the vital human right to organize a union and to negotiate for decent wages and benefits." Read the full letter (PDF).

"We would like to express our support for the carefully balanced aid package to Colombia that invests in the long-term economic prosperity of the country, while simultaneously attending to immediate security needs of Colombia. Colombia has made great strides in its effort to extend state institutions into areas that were once ungovernable. Now it is time to consolidate those gains through responsible aid for security and greater investment in social and economic development." Read the full letter (PDF).

"We write today to express our deep concern regarding what appear to be politically-motivated burglaries targeting human rights and peace organizations. We recognize the many difficult challenges you face in strengthening the rule of law in your country during an ongoing conflict and were encouraged after your recent visit to Washington, D.C., where you reiterated your commitment to human rights. In light of your stance, we are taking this opportunity to call on your government to act on these serious allegations." Read the full letter (PDF).