The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“TRIBUTE TO IRVING GEORGE LIEBERFARB” mentioning the U.S. Dept of State was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E1317 on July 18, 1996.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
TRIBUTE TO IRVING GEORGE LIEBERFARB
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HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS
of florida
in the house of representatives
Thursday, July 18, 1996
Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Mr. Irving George Lieberfarb, a distinguished American from Lake Worth, FL, who recently passed away.
Mr. Lieberfarb was a worthy and admirable individual whose absence is a tragic loss to his family and his community. He was very active in the B'nai B'rith movement, and his synagogue Petach Tikva Congregation, on behalf of many worthy causes. It was Mr. Lieberfarb who brought to my attention the matter of Varian Fry, an American who had saved thousands of Jewish lives during World War II, but had never been honored. In 1939 Mr. Fry had requested the State Department allow him to secure the passage of Jewish refugees suffering under the Nazi regime. The Government responded by reluctantly offering merely 200 visas, and eventually put an end to his work by forcing him to return to America. When he criticized the U.S. immigration policy, upon his return, the Government shunned him and refused to recognize his noble deeds.
I had read Mr. Lieberfarb's article about Varian Fry and was disturbed that the actions of this man were ignored for so long. Therefore, I introduced H.R. 3352, legislation to award the congressional gold medal of honor to Varian Fry's family in honor of his great accomplishments. Mr. Lieberfarb's efforts for this cause alone exhibits his concern for righteousness and justice. It was an honor to have known him.
For this reason, I also wish to insert in the Record the kind words submitted by his family to the New York Times, on Friday, June 28, 1996.
Irving George Lieberfarb, of Lakewood Florida, died on June 26, 1996, Beloved husband of Irene, father of Jay and Richard. Loving grandfather of Suzanne and Julie. Brother of Mae Zeller, Daniel, and Eddie. Loving uncle of many nephews and nieces. Always thinking how much he could do for his family.
We will never forget your positive influence and always concern for the special interest of the many friends and relations. With love and gratitude, your niece and nephews, Warren, Bonnie, Monte and Jim.
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