Rep. Green to Lead up "Purple Finger'' Effort in Congress to Show Solidarity with Iraqi People on Eve of Elections

Rep. Green to Lead up "Purple Finger'' Effort in Congress to Show Solidarity with Iraqi People on Eve of Elections

"Victory in Iraq Caucus" co-chairman Green will offer representatives chance to ink fingers purple - as Iraqis will do after casting their ballots on December 15

GREEN BAY - On December 15, Iraqi citizens will head to the polls, dipping their fingers in purple ink as a sign that their ballots have been cast. To show his support, U.S. Rep. Mark Green ( R-Green Bay ) will lead an effort in Congress next week to have his colleagues show their own solidarity with the Iraqi people by similarly dipping their fingers in purple ink.

"Next week, millions of Iraqis will brave the threat of attack to head out to the polls and elect their national leaders," Green said. "This historic occasion promises to change the face of Iraq , and propel the cause of freedom even further in this fledgling democracy. To honor of this incredible achievement, I will work to have my colleagues dip their fingers in purple ink - a display that will send the Iraqi people a clear message: we stand with you."

Green said his effort to have members of Congress dip their fingers in purple ink was part of a national endeavor, known as the "Raise a Purple Finger for Freedom" campaign. While the effort will coincide with Iraq 's parliamentary elections scheduled for next Wednesday, December 15, the campaign itself will formally begin Monday, December 12.

Green is the co-chairman of the Victory in Iraq Caucus - a group comprised of 118 members of Congress who serve to honor the men and women of the U.S. armed forces, and promote their success in the War on Terror.

http://www.house.gov/markgreen/PRESS/2005/December/NR120905PurpleFingers.htm