[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 30 (Thursday, March 9, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E338]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  ON THE INTRODUCTION OF HER BILL SUPPORTING A SALVADORAN-AMERICAN DAY

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                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 9, 2006

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a bill supporting 
the goals and ideals of a Salvadoran-American Day (EI Dia del 
Salvadoreno) in recognition of all Salvadoran-Americans for their hard 
work, dedication and contribution to the stability and well-being of 
the United States.
  Forty years of internal political turmoil forced hundreds of 
thousands of individuals from the Republic of EI Salvador to flee the 
country and seek peace and security in the United States. Currently, 
there are over 900,000 Salvadoran-Americans living in the United 
States, with the majority of them living in California, the Washington, 
DC Metropolitan Area and New York. In the Los Angeles metropolitan area 
alone, there are roughly 400,000 Salvadoran-Americans.
  In California, the state with the largest population of Salvadoran 
Americans, EI Dia del Salvadoreno is widely celebrated among the Latino 
community. This celebration of Salvadoran traditions dates back to 
1525, when on August 6 the city of Villa De San Salvador was founded. 
August 6 also marks the date when Salvadorans around the United States 
celebrate the ``Fiestas Agostinas'' (August Holidays.) This celebration 
pays homage to the cultural festivities of EI Salvador while adapting 
itself to the lives of Salvadorans in the United States. Celebrated by 
Salvadoran-Americans in California and throughout our country, 
Salvadoran-American Day has grown in significance over the years.
  Let us not forget that our Nation was built by people from many 
nations and cultures whose lives and work have contributed to the 
greatness of our Nation. Likewise, we must recognize the efforts of 
Salvadoran-Americans for their cultural and economic contributions to 
the United States and support the ideals of a Salvadoran-American Day.

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