Saluting Hispanic Americans
As a nation, one of our greatest strengths is our diversity. We have among our population almost every ethnic heritage found on the face of the earth. This one fact alone makes us exceptional. You will not find the American mosaic, with its rich diversity, in any other country in the entire world.
Each year, we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month between September 15th and October 15th. In doing so, we place an emphasis on the contributions made by Hispanic-Americans. There are 55 million Hispanics in this country and they make up 17 percent of our population. They are the fastest growing minority group in America.
We began celebrating Hispanic Americans in 1968, when President Lyndon Baines Johnson started Hispanic Heritage Week. Twenty years later, President Ronald Reagan expanded the observance by adding an additional three weeks.
Hispanic-Americans have enriched the soul of America. They have made significant contributions to our national character by improving our business communities, every level of government, our military, our justice system, our universities and colleges, our healthcare system, our entertainment industry, our religious institutions, our agricultural system, and so much more.
During National Hispanic Heritage Month and throughout the year, I urge each of you to explore the history of your Hispanic-American neighbors, colleagues, and friends. In doing so, you will better appreciate their courage, sacrifice, and tenacity. Our country is a better place because of their presence, their industriousness, and their ingenuity.
In my life as an elected official, I have worked closely with countless Hispanic-Americans, including Trinidad “Trini” Garza who worked tirelessly to transform the educational system in Dallas; Francisco “Pancho” Medrano, Sr., was a giant during the 1960’s Civil Rights Movement. He was a prudent political advisor and supporter when I first won a seat in the Texas Legislature. At his insistence, I also ran for a senior post in the Texas State Convention shortly after being elected to my seat in the Texas House of Representatives.
During the Convention, I was nominated in English and in Spanish by Mr. Medrano and his allies. I won the seat to the surprise of nearly everyone in the Convention. Icons like Pancho Medrano transformed the landscape of Texas and national politics. We owe a huge debt of gratitude for the sacrifice of these and many others who lived their lives committed to improving our society for all people.
When I proposed legislation in the Texas House to provide free meals to children from low-income families, my principle ally in the effort was Representative Carlos Truan who represented a district in Corpus Christi. Together, we worked on legislation that resulted in the state providing free breakfast to low-income students in public schools across Texas.
Throughout my tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives, I’ve worked with Hispanic-Americans who are dedicated to providing exemplary public service to District 30 constituents. My District Director, Esperanza Worley, has served in my Congressional Office for 23 years and has been a zealous advocate for and provider of constituent services.
As a member of Congress, I have had similar experiences while working with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus on policies that assist low-income families, working individuals, the elderly and disabled members of our population.
During this month, we should all salute the bountiful contributions that Hispanic-Americans have made and continue to make to our nation. They are an essential part of what makes our country great, and I am always honored to recognize their impactful legacy.
