[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 68 (Tuesday, May 5, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1059]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             RECOGNIZING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CINCO DE MAYO

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                               speech of

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 4, 2009

  Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the 
resolution honoring the historical significance of Cinco de Mayo.
  This holiday, as we all know, recognizes Mexico's remarkable defense 
against foreign intervention, a feat marked by great courage, 
sacrifice, and devotion to the right of self-termination.
  But as we also know, the day transcends a single battle at the City 
of Puebla, where, many years ago, Mexican forces defeated a far more 
advanced and well-equipped military force.
  For Americans, the holiday has come to symbolize the rich and diverse 
experience of Mexicans and Mexican-Americans. It is a day on which we 
celebrate the rich and varied contributions of Americans of Mexican 
ancestry to the history, culture, and progress of the United States.
  Whether you celebrate the day by watching a mariachi performance on 
the National Mall, or by listening to a lecture on the activism of 
Cesar Chavez, or by simply going to a backyard barbecue with your 
family and friends, you know that this holiday is, at its essence, an 
American holiday.
  In my home state of California, in fact, Americans have been 
celebrating this day as far back as 1863, just one year after the 
historic Battle of Puebla.
  Thus as we commemorate this day, let us honor our brothers and 
sisters who have contributed to the rich diversity of the United 
States. Let us remember that this diversity, far from being a recent 
phenomenon, or a distinct chapter in American history, has been with us 
since our Nation's founding, and has enriched our country throughout 
each and every chapter of our history. Let us continue to celebrate 
this diversity, and recognize that it will continue to be the great 
blessing and strength of our country.

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