[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 159 (Thursday, October 29, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2669-E2670]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 28, 2009

  Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support 
of House Resolution 783, which recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month and 
celebrates the vast contributions of Hispanic-Americans to the strength 
and culture of the United States.
  In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson introduced Hispanic Heritage Week, 
which was later expanded to Hispanic Heritage Month in 1988 by 
President Ronald Reagan. This year, Americans commemorated the history 
of Hispanic-Americans and their numerous contributions to our country 
from September 15, 2009, to October 15, 2009.
  The estimated Hispanic population of the United States as of July 1, 
2008, was 46.9 million. Hispanic-Americans constitute 15 percent of the 
Nation's total population, comprise 62.2 percent of my district in 
Houston, Texas, and are the fastest-growing minority group in the 
United States. Their contributions to our society are evident in many 
areas including the arts, architecture, literature, military, and our 
government.
  In congratulate all Hispanic-Americans on their rich history and 
culture, and recognize Hispanic Heritage Month as an important time to 
commemorate the great achievements and contributions of Hispanic-
Americans to the United States.
  As a cosponsor of this important resolution, I urge my colleagues to 
support its passage.

[[Page E2670]]



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