Substitute for House Resolution No. 281.

            A resolution to stand in solidarity with our Ukrainian community in Michigan and to commend Secretary of State John Kerry’s timely response in requesting that the government of Ukraine not abandon the course of a democratic society where its citizens have the right to assemble peacefully.

            Whereas, Over a million demonstrators have amassed throughout Ukraine to voice their dissent with President Viktor Yanukovych's decision to align with Russia and abandon a free trade agreement with the European Union; and

            Whereas, The Ukrainian authorities met the peaceful protest in Kiev’s Maidan Square with riot police, bulldozers, and batons, rather than with respect for democratic rights and human dignity; and

            Whereas, There is a sizeable Ukrainian community in Michigan that looks at events that are occurring in Ukraine with great concern; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we stand in solidarity with our Ukrainian community in Michigan as they support the Ukrainian people in their desire to be free from an oppressive regime and to live in a civil society where freedoms are respected and the marketplace of ideas, free speech, and thought are encouraged without fear of retribution and imprisonment; and be it further

            Resolved, That we commend Secretary of State John Kerry’s timely response in requesting that the government of Ukraine not abandon the course of a democratic society where its citizens have the right to assemble peacefully.