To the Editor:

As the headlines on the devastating impacts of climate change in our country and worldwide hitting the media, we wonder whether our legislators are doing enough to address this issue. It is comforting to know that we have such a champion in our Congressman Gerald Connolly. Here are some of Gerry's environmental activities:

• Co-chair of the House Sustainable Energy and Environmental Coalition (SEEC) – 54 members active on environmental, sustainable and renewable energy issues.

• As chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, he helped adopt the county’s first comprehensive environmental plan and adopted the Cool Counties initiative.

• He is an original cosponsor of Congressman Chris Van Hollen’s Healthy Climate and Family Security Act, which is a cap and dividend proposal similar to what Citizens' Climate Lobby (CCL) advocates.

Gerry has visited 98 countries and has witnessed the pains inflicted on people by hunger, poverty, and political and religious repression. The burning desire to help Americans preserve our great democracy has led Gerry to pursue a career of public service on Capitol Hill. He has devoted his time to helping his constituents on all issues ranging from a small business matter to legislative efforts on climate change. His open door policy in welcoming constituents to express their concerns is managed by a staff who are committed to helping them in finding a satisfactory solution.

Coming from a war-torn country that was shattered by political instability and poverty, we have learned to appreciate the value of peace and democracy. It is exactly the type of representation and leadership found in some one like Gerry that we can count on to fight for social justice and to keep our democracy strong. Gerry is known for his tenacity and candor in speaking up and fight for a cause. He is competent, caring and accessible. Let's work together to re-elect our Congressman Gerry Connolly.

Vinh Cam, Ph.D.

Founder and CEO

Vietnamese American Coalition

Cam is a consultant on climate change.