[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 79 (Monday, June 2, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1101]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING THE IMAGEN FOUNDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 2, 2003

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the 
outstanding achievements of the Imagen Foundation. Since its 
establishment sixteen years ago through the leadership of Helen 
Hernandez, the Imagen Foundation has led the fight to increase career 
opportunities for Latinos and Latinas in the entertainment industry and 
transcend the stereotyped media roles Latinos have been pigeonholed 
into.
  The Imagen Foundation has helped to positively influence the role of 
Latinos in the media. It is critical for our community to be accurately 
portrayed because of the influential power the media holds in forming 
public opinion. Unfortunately, our community is underrepresented and 
misrepresented throughout all major media networks. Reports show that 
only 4 percent of people on prime time TV are Latinos, and Latinos who 
hold more permanent roles only make up 2 percent of actors. It is 
important to expose the world to the reality that Latinos are also 
doctors, lawyers, business executives and Members of Congress, and 
refute the stereotypes perpetuated by the entertainment industry.
  Through various tools such as education, mentorship opportunities and 
workshops, the Imagen Foundation has created openings for Latinos in 
the entertainment industry. I have had the privilege of attending 
several workshops and I have seen the incredible talent that exists in 
the Latino community. The Imagen Foundation has been an amazing force 
working to develop, showcase and honor the talent in our community. It 
is my privilege to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Imagen 
Foundation.
  Through groups such as the Imagen Foundation and people like Helen 
Hernandez, more doors are beginning to open for Latinos in the 
entertainment industry. While much has been accomplished, we cannot 
stop here. There is still much to be done and we need to continue to 
work together. Hispanics are a fundamental part of this nation's 
history, a significant part of our present, and will play a vital role 
in the future success of this country's collective prosperity. I know 
that this is just the beginning, but with institutions such as the 
Imagen Foundation, who are committed to fighting prejudices and are 
concerned with bringing truth and a cultural sensitivity to television 
and society, I look forward to the accomplishments that are yet to 
come.

                          ____________________