[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 137 (Thursday, September 15, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1642]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      IN HONOR AND RECOGNITION OF THE 2011 HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 15, 2011

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 2011 Hispanic 
Heritage Month, as we celebrate the members of this community and their 
invaluable contributions to the Greater Cleveland Area and to our 
country.
  In 1968, Hispanic Heritage Week began; the week was expanded to a 
month in 1988. Every year, Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 
15, a day that is celebrated in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, 
Honduras and Nicaragua as the anniversary of their independence. Mexico 
and Chile's independence days also fall within the month. This year's 
theme is ``Many Backgrounds, Many Stories . . . One American Spirit.''
  Hispanic Heritage month celebrates and illuminates the significant 
contributions that Americans of Hispanic heritage have had on American 
culture. Hispanic Americans have contributed immeasurably toward 
efforts to elevate the human condition. Americans of Hispanic descent 
have served our country in numerous ways--as elected officials, 
teachers, musicians, physicians, veterans, community activists, and 
dedicated employees in virtually every sector of the economy. Their 
rich and diverse culture has touched the life of every American and has 
been an invaluable addition to Cleveland's diverse social fabric.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and celebration 
of Hispanic Heritage month of 2011, as we recognize the great 
contributions made by Hispanic Americans in my district and around the 
country.

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