[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 72 (Thursday, June 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1056]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E1056]]
            TRIBUTE TO THE NATIONAL PUERTO RICAN DAY PARADE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOSE E. SERRANO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 7, 2006

  Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to pay tribute to the 48th Annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade, 
which will be held on June 11, 2006 in New York City. This parade, 
which celebrates the heritage of the Puerto Rican people, is one of the 
largest outdoor events in the United States.
  The first New York Puerto Rican Day parade, held on Sunday, April 12, 
1958 in ``El Barrio'' in Manhattan, was a wonderful event in the heart 
of the city's Puerto Rican community.
  In 1995, the overwhelming success of the parade prompted organizers 
to increase its size, and transform it into a national affair now known 
as the National Puerto Rican Day Parade. This magnificent New York 
institution now includes participation from delegates representing over 
30 states, including Alaska and Hawaii and attracts over 3 million 
parade goers every year.
  The great success that this parade has enjoyed over the years is a 
result of the tireless efforts of many individuals from all walks of 
life who are dedicated to preserving and celebrating Puerto Rican 
heritage and culture. Leading this effort is the National Puerto Rican 
Day Parade, Inc. a non-profit organization founded in 1995 with the 
mission of increasing the self-awareness and pride of the Puerto Rican 
people as a way of addressing issues of economic development, 
education, cultural recognition, and social advancement.
  The parade up New York's Fifth Avenue, while certainly the most 
visible aspect of the celebration of the Puerto Rican people, is not 
the only event associated with the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, 
Inc.'s activities. Each year more than 10,000 people attend a variety 
of award ceremonies, banquets and cultural events which not only help 
to highlight, but also strengthen the special relationship shared by 
Puerto Ricans and the City of New York. Over the years, the two have 
developed a symbiotic relationship--Puerto Ricans sharing a vibrant and 
beautiful culture that has helped turn New York into a bilingual city 
and the City of New York helping Puerto Ricans to flourish 
economically, politically and culturally. The annual parade captures 
the spirit of this special relationship and celebrates its success.
  Mr. Speaker, as a Puerto Rican, a New Yorker, and a Member of 
Congress, it is an honor to participate in this national event in which 
thousands of individuals march along Fifth Avenue in celebration. The 
National Puerto Rican Day Parade is a communal cultural treasure, 
national in scope and impact, which unites all New Yorkers. I ask my 
colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the Puerto Rican people and 
to all who have worked to ensure that the upcoming parade is a success.

                          ____________________