Ann's Campaign - Ann's Friends Speak Out

Ann's
C A M P A I G N

For A Safer America

Smile More € Care More
Love More € Be More Understanding

Ann's Campaign, P.O. Box 262, Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121

DISCUSSION OF ANN'S CAMPAIGN
FOR A SAFER AMERICA

On the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1997

Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the resilience of a remarkable northern Virginia family. In April I was on the floor commemorating a young woman whose life was cut short in an act of senseless, random violence. At that time, the Mt. Vernon community in my district was attempting to come to grips with the loss of Ann Marie Harris, who was shot and killed in Tacoma, WA, during her spring break.

Madam Speaker, since this senseless tragedy Ann's friends and family have worked hard to keep her memory alive through the founding of `Ann's Campaign for a Safer America.' This organization is working to help all of us live the life that Ann radiated; a life in which we care more and are more understanding of each other.

I have the deepest respect for the Harris family as they try to turn this tragedy into a positive contribution for our communities. The Harrises have undertaken a speaking campaign to spread their experience through school presentation, conferences, and other forums. They will work with parents and school groups to prevent tragedies like this from recurring.

Madam Speaker, it epitomizes the best of the human spirit.

The Harris family is truly an example for us all. They have taken this shattering experience and turned it into a living tribute to their daughter. Ann's exceptional energy and enthusiasm lives on through these efforts.

Mr. Speaker, Ann's Campaign for A Safer America' epitomizes the very best of the human spirit. I can think of no more appropriate memorial from Ann's family and friends than this effort to bring more understanding and less violence to our community.