Rep. Howrylak offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 281.  

            A resolution to stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and to encourage the Ukrainian government to support a democratic society where its citizens have the right to assemble and express themselves.

            Whereas, Over a million demonstrators have amassed throughout Ukraine to voice their dissent with President Viktor Yanukovych's decision to abandon a free trade agreement with the European Union. Instead, President Yanukovych has chosen to seek greater economic ties with Russia, in spite of promising to position Ukraine as a bridge between Russia and the European Union; and

            Whereas, Ukrainian authorities used violence to disperse many of the peaceful demonstrators. Governments should not condone the use of force. They should respect the principles of a free and civil society and the basic human right to life and liberty. We applaud Secretary of State John Kerry for expressing disgust with the decision of the Ukrainian authorities to meet 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 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; and be it further

            Resolved, That we encourage the Ukrainian government to support a democratic society where its citizens have the right to assemble and express themselves without fear of retribution and imprisonment; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States.