Schakowsky is a member of the House Banking Committee, which held hearings on the role of French, British and Austrian banks during World War II and on the efforts made to restore Holocaust victims' stolen assets.  The Committee also reviewed issues related to profits derived from forced labor during the Nazi era and received a report on negotiations concerning a settlement of looted insurance claims by Holocaust victims and their heirs.

"The Holocaust represents the darkest period in recent history and certainly the greatest human tragedy.  Now, we are faced with the challenge of a timely resolution for survivors and families of victims.  As we continue with Congressional inquiries, international negotiations, and independent research, those on whose behalf we are working continue to age.  It is one of my highest priorities to bring those individuals some measure of compensation that they so rightfully deserve as quickly as possible," Schakowsky said. 

Deputy Treasury Secretary Stuart Eizenstat, former Secretary of State and current Chairman of the International Commission on Holocaust-Era Insurance Claims Lawrence Eagleburger, Holocaust survivors, and bank representatives testified before the committee.  Elan Steinberg, World Jewish Congress Executive Director also testified in today's hearing.

During her recent trip to Israel, Schakowsky met with Avi Becker of the World Jewish Congress on the issue of Holocaust reparations for survivors and families of victims.  

Earlier this year, Schakowsky unveiled a new page on her web site to help Holocaust survivors and families.  The address is www.house.gov/schakowsky/holocaust.shtml.  She is also planing to announce in the near future steps to help Holocaust survivors and families of victims living in her district have better access to information that will help them receive the compensation they deserve.