[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 81 (Wednesday, June 21, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1235]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRESSMAN RANGEL APPLAUDS PRESIDENT BUSH FOR SIGNING PROCLAMATION 
               DECLARING JUNE AS CARIBBEAN HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 21, 2006

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend President Bush for 
his support of the resolution that acknowledges the contributions of 
Caribbean peoples in America and declares June as Caribbean Heritage 
Month. I also would like to congratulate the Honorable Barbara Lee for 
her efforts in bringing about this initiative, receiving 81 co-sponsors 
and getting this monumental legislation passed in both chambers of 
Congress. As one of the co-sponsors, I am extremely proud to be a part 
of the effort to recognize the Caribbean-Americans nationwide who have 
been a colorful thread of our Nation's fabric.
  This proclamation recognizes the millions of Caribbean peoples in the 
United States for their contributions to American society since its 
foundation. As a representative of a large Caribbean constituency, I 
have always felt the need to advocate on behalf of this distinctive 
community while educating others that Caribbean cultures have 
influenced our educational and political structures as well as popular 
culture.
  Since 1619, immigrants from the Caribbean islands began to populate 
America, bringing with them elements of cultural, religious and 
linguistic diversity. I appreciate the emphasis that this resolution 
places on shedding light on our Nation's history as many great 
political thinkers, such as President Alexander Hamilton, were born in 
the Caribbean. This little known fact was largely unheard of because of 
the taboos, discrimination and racism that existed in our country's 
past.
  Today, as our Nation's third border, Caribbean nations and our 
relations with them are fundamental to our interdependent successes in 
sharing medical advancements, fighting terrorism and promoting 
diversity appreciation.
  In celebration of Caribbean Heritage month, this June, I will promote 
participation in local festivities. I am glad to support activities 
such as parades, carnivals and festivals that are being held in my 
district and nationwide in true Island fashion and flair.

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