[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 124 (Wednesday, September 15, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1649]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  CELEBRATING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MAXINE WATERS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 15, 2010

  Ms. WATERS. Madam Speaker, I rise to join with Latinos and Latinas in 
California's 35th Congressional District and all across the United 
States in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, which starts today. This 
month is a great opportunity to learn about and to recognize the 
history of Hispanics in our state and our country, their significant 
accomplishments and their important ongoing contributions.
  The Hispanic community in America, which now numbers almost 50 
million people, is diverse. The largest group is Mexican-Americans, 
many of whom tomorrow will be celebrating 200 years of Mexico's 
independence from Spain and later this year will commemorate the 
centennial of the Mexican Revolution, when the people of Mexico rose up 
against an oppressive dictatorship to establish a democratic government 
that promoted equality and human rights.
  Despite the diversity among Hispanics, members of the community share 
common values with one another and with all other Americans: faith, 
family, and love of country. The Hispanic dream--the hope of a better, 
more prosperous future--is the American Dream.
  Economically, culturally, and politically, Latinos are a vital part 
of our district, our state and our nation. American life has been 
enriched by Hispanic contributions in business, education, government, 
and the arts for more than 200 years.
  As we celebrate the progress, success and achievements of the 
Hispanic community, we must also recognize the considerable challenges 
the community faces. Many Hispanic families and businesses have not 
fared well economically over the last several years as the failed 
economic policies of the Bush Administration led to the worst recession 
since the Great Depression.
  Hispanics, like African Americans and other minorities, have been 
particularly impacted by the economic downturn, with higher rates of 
unemployment and predatory subprime mortgages.
  Over the last year and a half, the Democratic-led Congress has been 
working hard to improve the lives and meet the needs of America's 
Hispanic families--from the economy, to small businesses, to making 
college more affordable, to health care, to veterans. We must do all we 
can to better ensure that all Latinos, like all Americans, have a 
meaningful opportunity to improve their lives and pursue the American 
Dream. I will continue to be a strong advocate for Hispanics and all of 
my constituents.

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