“Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to take this moment to recognize Lithuanian Independence Day.

The Lithuanian American Community, Inc., East Chicago Chapter, will be commemorating this special occasion with a
celebratory event on Sunday, February 16, 2020, at the Chesterton Moose Lodge 1623 in Chesterton, Indiana.

On February 16, 1918, an Act of Independence was signed by the Council of Lithuania, which gave the country its
independence from Germany. This day is proudly celebrated as State Independence Day. Lithuania maintained its independence
until 1940 when it was annexed by Russia. The country remained under Soviet rule for almost fifty years before regaining its
freedom in 1990. Independence Restoration Day is celebrated on March 11 each year in honor of Lithuania’s reestablished
independence. Lithuanians in Northwest Indiana and all over the world celebrate these days of independence with great
enthusiasm and pride.

The members and leaders of the Lithuanian American Community, Inc., East Chicago Chapter, are to be honored, not only for
their commitment to preserving tradition, but also for their dedication to civic, cultural, educational, and social programs.

For their significant contributions to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, the members and leaders of the Lithuanian
American Community, Inc., East Chicago Chapter, are worthy of the highest praise.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating Lithuanian Independence Day and
honoring the members and leaders of the Lithuanian American Community, Inc., East Chicago Chapter, for their loyalty and
dedication to their culture and traditions. The Lithuanian community has played a key role in enriching the quality of life and
diversity of Northwest Indiana, and we are truly grateful for the organization’s service to Northwest Indiana and beyond.”