[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 145 (Tuesday, October 13, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2142]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E2142]]
                TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE ESTEBAN TORRES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                       HON. LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 6, 1998

  Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the 
achievements of Esteben Torres, my esteemed colleague and friend.
  As a member of the House for over 15 years, Esteban has faithfully 
represented the people of East Los Angeles with enthusiasm, dedication 
and respectability.
  As the highest-ranking hispanic member on the Appropriations 
Committee, longstanding member and former chair of the Congressional 
Hispanic Caucus, and Deputy Democratic Whip, Esteban is an excellent 
role model for Latinos and young people across our nation.
  Not only is Esteban Torres an inspiration for our future leaders, but 
for anyone who strives to improve his or her life. Esteban embodies the 
wonderful American ideal that no matter who you are or where you come 
from, you can find success.
  Esteban comes from very humble beginnings. His father, a Mexican 
immigrant who toiled in Arizona's copper mines, was deported during the 
Depression along with many other Mexican immigrants. Esteban never saw 
his father again. Later, living with his mother in East Los Angeles, 
Esteban almost dropped out of high school.
  But Esteban defied the odds. Starting as an assembly line worker at 
the Chrysler Plant in Los Angeles, he rose through the ranks of the 
United Auto Workers, and later served in the Korean War. In the 1960s, 
he founded a critically important community development corporation, 
the East Los Angeles Community Union.
  Recognizing Esteban's superb diplomatic skills, President Jimmy 
Carter appointed him as Ambassador to the United Nation's Education, 
Scientific and Cultural Organization in 1976 and later, as Special 
Assistant to the President for Hispanic Affairs. In 1982, Esteban was 
elected to represent the 34th Congressional District.
  What I appreciate most about Esteban is that he has never forgotten 
his roots. He has tirelessly advocated for the workers and low-income 
families of this country. He exemplifies the promise of the American 
dream.
  Thank you for making a difference in so many people's lives. I will 
miss your companionship and kindness. I bid you a fond farewell, 
Esteban.

                          ____________________