III 109th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 571 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 14, 2006 Mr. Frist (for himself, Mr. Reid, Mr. Martinez, Mr. Salazar, Mr. Santorum, Mrs. Hutchison, Mr. Crapo, Mr. Alexander, Mr. Bingaman, Mr. Lieberman, Mr. Menendez, and Mr. Nelson of Florida) 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 the United States.

Whereas from September 15, 2006, through October 15, 2006, the United States celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month; Whereas the presence of Hispanics in North America predates the founding of the United States, and, as among the first to settle in the New World, Hispanics and their descendants have had a profound and lasting influence on the history, values, and culture of the United States; 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, 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 the United States; Whereas the Bureau of the Census now lists Hispanic Americans as the largest ethnic minority within the United States; Whereas Hispanic Americans serve in all branches of the Armed Forces and have fought valiantly in every war in the history of the United States; 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 Armed Forces have continued their service to the United States; Whereas many Hispanic Americans are dedicated public servants, holding posts at the highest levels of government, including 3 current seats in the United States Senate; and Whereas Hispanic Americans have a deep commitment to faith, family, and community, an enduring work ethic, and a perseverance to succeed: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1)recognizes September 15, 2006, through October 15, 2006, as Hispanic Heritage Month; (2)celebrates the vast contributions of Hispanic Americans to the strength and culture of the United States; and (3)encourages the people of the United States to observe Hispanic Heritage Month with appropriate programs and activities.