Should Congress Offer Condolences to Ecuadorians Recovering From a Devastating Earthquake? (H. Res. 689)

What is H. Res. 689?

(Updated July 18, 2017)

On April 16, 2016, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Ecuador, killing at least 570 people. As of April 21, at least 155 additional Ecuadorians remained missing, 7,015 were injured, and almost 25,000 people were living in shelters.

In addition to the human toll, the earthquake destroyed homes, hospitals, roads, and businesses, and knocked out electricity and water.

This resolution expresses Congress’ condolences to and support for the people of Ecuador. It points out that approximately 700,000 Ecuadorian-Americans live in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and that these Americans are concerned about their families, friends, and loved ones back in Ecuador.

It also adds that flooding from El Niño is making search, rescue, and recovery efforts particularly difficult.

Finally, the legislation acknowledges that Secretary of State John Kerry said the United States will “stand by the people of Ecuador in this difficult time and are ready to assist in any way we can.” 

It commends everyone working to assist in the wake of the earthquake, including international agencies, the U.S. Government, and nongovernment organizations.

Argument in favor

The people of Ecuador are grieving and dealing with death and destruction. Congress should acknowledge their losses and offer condolences.

Argument opposed

Congress should stop wasting time on meaningless resolutions. Words will not actually do anything to help those suffering in Ecuador.

Impact

Congress, the people of Ecuador, Ecuadorian-Americans, rescue crews, others who were affected by the earthquake

Cost of H. Res. 689

Additional Info

In Depth: The earthquake is Ecuador’s deadliest since 1987, when a 7.2-magnitude earthquake killed 1,000 people.

Ecuadorian Defense Minister Ricardo Patiño told the earthquake was “the worst tragedy in 60 years.” He said it would take the country years to recover.

Of Note:

Sponsoring Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-NY) said in a press release:

“The road to recovery will be long and difficult for the people of Ecuador, and I’m pleased that the U.S. government had pledged assistance. Our resolution is a signal to the people of Ecuador that the U.S. Congress also stands with them in the wake of this tragedy.”

Media:

• Sponsoring Rep Joseph Crowley (D-NY) press release

• Queens Times Ledger

• QNS