III 109th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 238 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 14, 2005 Mr. Frist (for himself, Mr. Salazar, Mr. Martinez, Mr. Alexander, Mr. Allen, Mr. Burr, Mr. Chambliss, Mr. Cochran, Mr. Coleman, Mr. Crapo, Mr. Grassley, Mr. Hagel, Mr. Inhofe, Mr. McCain, Mr. Nelson of Florida, Mr. Obama, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Santorum, Mr. Stevens, Mr. Talent, Mr. Voinovich, and Mr. Bingaman) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrating the vast contributions of Hispanic Americans to the strength and culture of our Nation.

Whereas from September 15, 2005, through October 15, 2005, the country celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month; Whereas the presence of Hispanics on this continent predates the founding of our Nation, and, as among the first to settle in the New World, Hispanics and their descendants have had a profound and lasting influence on American history, values, and culture; Whereas since the arrival of the earliest Spanish settlers more than 400 years ago, millions of Hispanic men and women have come to the United States from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, El Salvador and other Caribbean regions, Central America, South America, and Spain, in search of freedom, peace, and opportunity; Whereas Hispanic Americans have contributed throughout the ages to the prosperity and culture of our nation; Whereas the United States Census Bureau now lists Hispanic Americans as the largest ethnic minority within the United States; Whereas Hispanic Americans serve in all branches of the military and have fought valiantly in every war in United States history; Whereas the Medal of Honor is the highest United States military distinction, awarded since the Civil War for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty; Whereas 41 men of Hispanic origin have earned this distinction, including 21 such men who sacrificed their lives; Whereas many Hispanic Americans who served in the military have continued their service to our country; Whereas Hispanic Americans are dedicated public servants, holding posts at the highest levels of government, including two seats in the United States Senate; and Whereas Hispanic Americans harbor a deep commitment to family and community, an enduring work ethic, and a perseverance to succeed: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1)recognizes September 15, 2005, through October 15, 2005, as Hispanic Heritage Month; (2)celebrates the vast contributions of Hispanic Americans to the strength and culture of our Nation; and (3)encourages the people of the United States to observe Hispanic Heritage Month with appropriate programs and activities.