This resolution expresses profound sorrow over the unsolved murder of peace activist and Arab-American leader Alexander Michel Odeh by domestic terrorism in 1985.
J. Correa
Representative
CA-46
This resolution expresses profound sorrow over the tragic death of Alexander Michel Odeh, a dedicated peace activist and educator killed by a pipe bomb in 1985. It formally honors his life, contributions to civil liberties, and acknowledges that those responsible for this act of domestic terrorism remain unpunished. The House of Representatives sends its deepest sympathies to his family and will adjourn in his memory.
House Formally Honors Civil Rights Activist Alex Odeh, Victim of 1985 Domestic Terrorism
This resolution is a formal statement from the House of Representatives expressing profound sorrow over the tragic death of Alexander Michel Odeh, a civil rights activist and poet who was killed by a pipe bomb in 1985.
The Purpose: Honoring a Legacy of Advocacy
This isn't a bill that changes policy or hands out funding; it’s Congress taking a moment to formally acknowledge a piece of U.S. history and honor a victim of domestic terrorism. The resolution specifically recognizes Alex Odeh, born in Palestine in 1944, who spent much of his adult life in California advocating for civil liberties for Arab-Americans and promoting human rights globally. At the time of his death, he served as the Southern California Regional Director for the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC).
The Tragic Event and Unresolved Justice
The core of the resolution focuses on the fact that Alex Odeh was murdered on October 11, 1985, when a pipe bomb detonated as he entered the ADC office in Santa Ana. Importantly, the resolution highlights a detail that will resonate with anyone who cares about justice: the individuals responsible for this act of domestic terrorism have never been brought to justice. This formal acknowledgment in the Congressional record ensures that the unresolved nature of this crime is not forgotten.
What This Means for the Record
For most people, a resolution like this won't change their daily life, but it serves a crucial purpose in the context of government procedure and historical memory. The House is officially expressing sympathy to his wife, Norma Odeh, and their three daughters. Beyond the condolences, the resolution instructs the Clerk of the House to communicate this statement to the Senate and send a copy directly to the Odeh family. Finally, as a sign of respect, the House will adjourn its session in memory of Mr. Odeh. While it doesn't solve the crime, it permanently records his contributions and the tragedy of his death in the nation’s official history.