[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 123 (Wednesday, September 25, 2002)]
[House]
[Page H6687]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        PAUL ESPINOSA RESOLUTION

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Davis) is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support 
of my resolution recognizing the contributions of my constituent from 
San Diego, Paul Espinosa, to both the Latino and the arts community. A 
few years ago, a study conducted by a leading Latino nonprofit 
concluded that representation of Hispanics in mainstream network 
television decreased during the last 30 years. The few roles that were 
held by Latinos often depicted them as criminals, maids or gardeners. 
Paul Espinosa observed this disturbing trend 20 years ago and dedicated 
himself to making documentaries and films about Hispanic Americans. He 
applied his academic background in anthropology to media and developed 
textured depictions of Hispanics.
  The results have made Paul Espinosa one of the country's most 
respected and recognized documentary film- 
makers. His works, to name a few, include the Lemon Grove Incident, the 
Hunt for Pancho Villa, and the Earth did not swallow him, Uneasy 
Neighbors, and The Border. The characters and experiences in his films 
are as diverse as the Latino community itself. He chronicled the story 
of a controversial 19th century New Mexico priest, the defining summer 
in a young migrant boy's life, and the actions of parents in Lemon 
Grove, California fighting for their children's education. Through 
these films, Paul Espinosa shows that Latinos possess a complex and 
dignified history. These previously untold stories examine the social 
issues surrounding the protagonists and provide a history lesson for 
all their viewers.
  Many consider Paul Espinosa's films catalysts for important cultural 
dialogue. These films are so highly regarded that they have become the 
basis for film festivals bearing his name in Texas and California. 
Academia has also recognized Paul Espinosa's films for their 
contributions to education. Various high schools and universities 
include some of his films in their curriculum. Paul Espinosa, who holds 
a B.A. from Brown University and a Ph.D. from Stanford University, was 
named a Regents Lecturer at the University of California San Diego in 
2000 and is frequently asked to lecture at numerous universities on his 
films.
  Besides his work as a filmmaker, Paul Espinosa is a media arts 
activist. He is strongly dedicated to enabling an upcoming generation 
of filmmakers. His involvement with the Media Arts Center of San Diego 
and the Association of Independent Video and Filmmakers speaks to his 
commitment to support aspiring media artists and increase the 
visibility of traditionally underrepresented groups.
  One of the Media Art Center's most promising initiatives is the Teen 
Producer's Project. It teaches young people artistic and analytical 
skills by emphasizing effective communication through the use of 
digital video, interpersonal skills and creative writing.
  Paul Espinosa has defined his career by making films that tell a 
meaningful story. His films have spurred discussion and challenged its 
viewers to reexamine their perceptions of Hispanic Americans.
  I hope you, Mr. Speaker, and all of my colleagues will join me in 
honoring this community artist, his accomplishments in the media arts 
and his triumphs for the Latino community.

                          ____________________