[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 163 (Wednesday, November 4, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2719]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATE THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF HISPANIC AMERICANS TO THE UNITED STATES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 4, 2009

  Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 783, 
``Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month,'' and celebrating the vast 
contributions of Hispanic-Americans to the strength and culture of the 
United States.
  Through the centuries, millions of Hispanic men and women have 
traveled to the United States looking for the American dream and a 
better future for their families. They are today spread far and wide 
across the 50 States. Their arrival resulted in a remarkable mixture of 
Hispanic culture, traditions, music, food, and language with the 
American way of life. The Census Bureau reports that Hispanic Americans 
are the largest ethnic minority in our Nation today, representing 15 
percent of the total population.
  Hispanic Americans have created their own companies and businesses 
and are an integral part of the American workforce that keeps our 
economy moving forward. There are Hispanic Americans serving in the 
Senate and House of Representatives, but we must do more to increase 
these numbers and diversify Capitol Hill offices with better Hispanic 
representation. This year, Sonia Sotomayor, a Bronx native of Puerto 
Rican descent, became the first Latina to sit on the Supreme Court 
after being nominated by President Obama. Finally, we must pay respects 
to the over one million Hispanic veterans who have fought valiantly to 
defend this nation.
  On both big and small scales, Hispanic Americans have left their 
mark, their heritage, and their contributions on this great country. 
Their music is heard through voices like Celia Cruz, Marc Anthony, and 
Tito Puente. Their food is widely available in menus across the 
country. Their Spanish language we have grown accustomed to hearing, 
understanding, and loving.
  Hispanic American heritage is culture, life and beauty. I urge all my 
colleagues to extend their support to celebrate a cultural heritage and 
contribution that makes us the country we are.

                          ____________________