[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 190 (Thursday, November 30, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2268]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______


                        HON. WILLIAM J. MARTINI

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 30, 1995

  Mr. MARTINI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
November 1995, as Puerto Rican Heritage Month. The achievements and 
contributions of Puerto Rican-Americans should be acknowledged by us 
all.
  I especially would like to discuss an organization from my home 
State, Comite Noviembre de New Jersey. Founded in 1987, Comite has 
clearly promoted a holistic understanding of Puerto Rican culture in 
New Jersey and all over the United States. By highlighting social, 
economic, cultural, and political accomplishments, Comite has etched 
the history of the Puerto Rican people in the minds of all Americans. 
Widespread education has served a dual role: the Comite has 
strengthened a sense of cultural pride among young Puerto Ricans and 
has simultaneously generated respect for the Puerto Rican culture 
amongst non-Puerto Rican Americans.
  Puerto Rican Heritage Month serves to further our understanding and 
appreciation of Puerto Rican leaders of the past and the present. It 
also unifies Puerto Rican Americans by instilling a sense of pride in 
where they have been, and where they are going as a people. As head of 
the Comite Noviembre, Jose Angel Villalongo has recognized November 30, 
1995, as a day to pay tribute to Puerto Rican leaders of the State of 
New Jersey and the youth of the State. This day is dedicated to local 
Puerto Ricans in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the 
community and the family unit. They are not only models for this 
generation but also for generations to come, and of most importance, 
they are inspirations to us all.
  Comite is committed to supporting people and inspiring and educating 
future generations. By the year 2000, the Comite Noviembre de New 
Jersey hopes that all Americans will realize and appreciate the 
richness of culture and heritage found within the Puerto Rican 
community.
  I would like to offer my most sincere admiration and praise to the 
Puerto Rican-Americans of my congressional district and across the 
Nation as we celebrate Puerto Rican Heritage Month. This is a time of 
celebration to be enjoyed by all.

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