[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 73 (Monday, May 5, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E816-E817]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             CINCO DE MAYO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DAVID G. REICHERT

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 5, 2008

  Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Cinco de Mayo, a 
date which is

[[Page E817]]

celebrated by Americans, Mexicans, and many others around the world.
  The victory of the Mexican army over the French at the Battle of 
Puebla on May 5, 1862, came to represent unity and patriotism for the 
Mexican people, which is now celebrated today as Cinco de Mayo. That 
same spirit of unity and patriotism exists in this country, and sharing 
it with as many as possible is an honorable and notable goal.
  Millions of Hispanic Americans thrive and contribute in our country, 
with over 18 million residing in the Western United States, 65 percent 
of them of Mexican descent. These citizens bring their unique culture 
to communities throughout the United States. This is the epitome of 
what this Nation is all about--having the freedom to come together and 
celebrate so many different cultures.
  On Cinco de Mayo, we reflect on the contributions of the country of 
Mexico, the battle for unity and patriotism, and that our freedom to 
celebrate is not something we can take for granted.

                          ____________________