Letter to the editor published in the Washington Times, February 2008, by Maximilian Teleki, President of the Hungarian American Coalition. Shared in the February 16, 2008 Hungarian Lobby newsletter.

Thank you, Tom Lantos

Rep. Tom Lantos was an unfailing and principled advocate for human rights. He personified the highest principles of statesmanship by using his office and influence for good: to assist persecuted peoples throughout the world.

Throughout the years, Mr. Lantos and his family members attended various events sponsored by my organization. He often spoke with great pride of his Hungarian identity; occasionally, he even recited patriotic Hungarian poetry remembered from his childhood. He also possessed wit, charm and toughness that could win over the staunchest adversary.

To Hungarian-Americans, Mr. Lantos was a true ally in Washington. He shared our heritage, and he shared our concern for ethnic Hungarians who live as minorities throughout the Carpathian basin. Throughout his years in office, he took the lead and helped our cause in numerous congressional initiatives to call attention to the plight of Hungarian minorities — the most urgent cause uniting Hungarian-Americans today. Mr. Lantos never wavered in his commitment to the entire Hungarian nation.

As an advocate for our concerns and as a personal friend, he is irreplaceable.

On behalf of our members, our thoughts and prayers are with his beloved wife, Annette, and with the entire Lantos family.

Maximilian Teleki
President
Hungarian American Coalition
Washington