To: Pan-Macedonian Association
RE: Abuse of state courtesy resolution systems
I have just read Texas House Resolution 107 "authored" by Rep. Dennis
Bonnen and I am insulted and angry. I have no opinion on the subject matter of
the resolution. I am angry that you are using the honorary resolution system of
this state as a propaganda tool for your organization.
Whether or not "Macedonians are Hellenes" is not the issue under
discussion. The issue is that this is a matter of some controversy within the
international community and is therefore not an appropriate subject for the
state of Texas to comment through a simple resolution. These resolutions pertain
to matters considered by the house of origin only. Numbered separately from
other types of resolutions or bills, they are used for such purposes as adopting
or changing rules of procedure or expressing congratulations or condolences.
Only Concurrent Resolutions are used to express views of the legislature and
those must go to through a hearing process and be signed by the governor.
It is not appropriate for the Texas House of Representatives, much less the
State of Texas, to comment on this subject without debate. The fact that the
Pan-Macedonian Association had the exact same resolution passed in three other
states is a case in point. These resolutions were passed with no consideration
or debate. In Missouri the resolution was "passed" on December 11,
2002, a date that the legislature was not even in session.
When your organization states that "Missouri/California Declares that the
ancient Macedonians were Hellenes...." you are being extremely misleading
in disingenuous. The statement is made as if the state in question has an
actually policy or opinion on a matter which it does not. It simply printed up a
courtesy resolution at the request of a constituent. It is reminiscent of the
actions of Representative Tom Moore sponsored a resolution in the Texas House of
Representatives calling on the House to commend Albert de Salvo for his
unselfish service to ``his country, his state and his community.'' The
resolution was passed unanimously.
Representative Moore then revealed that he had only proposed the motion to show
how the legislature passes bills and resolutions often without reading them or
understanding what they say. Albert de Salvo was the Boston Strangler.
I ask your organization to stop using U.S. State Legislature's honorary
resolution process to forward your nefarious propaganda purposes. People will be
paying attention to your activities in the future.
Sincerely,
Nicholas Nelson