[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 56 (Wednesday, May 10, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E766]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO CINCO DE MAYO

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 9, 2006

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Mexican 
patriots who gave their lives to fight valiantly and successfully 
against an overwhelming French Army on May 5, 1862.
  This is the week of Cinco de Mayo, a time to celebrate the courage 
and bravery of Mexican Americans and of all those who have fought for 
the freedoms of self-governance.
  By celebrating Cinco de Mayo we honor the history of democracy in 
North America and remind ourselves that though our nation is made up of 
many diverse people and cultures, we all share a commitment to 
democratic freedom.
  Last year this House passed Concurrent Resolution 44, a bill that 
recognizes the historical significance of the Mexican holiday of Cinco 
de Mayo.
  Today, along with the other members of the Congressional Hispanic 
Caucus, I have called on the Senate Judiciary Committee to take up this 
resolution and pass it.
  Many celebrate this day with festivals, singing, and dancing. But 
this day is more than a party. It is a celebration of cultural pride 
and the respect for the rights of all people. And the Senate should 
celebrate this day by passing H. Con. Res. 44.

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