[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 141 (Monday, September 19, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1287]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                  RECOGNIZING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 19, 2016

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep respect and sincere 
admiration that I rise to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month 
and its 2016 theme, Hispanic Americans: Embracing, Enriching, and 
Enabling America. From September 15, 2016, through October 15, 2016, in 
honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the people of the United States will 
once again celebrate the cultures and traditions and honor the many 
outstanding contributions of our Hispanic American brothers and 
sisters.
   Hispanic Heritage Month, which begins each year on September 15, 
recognizes the anniversaries of the independence of five Latin American 
countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. 
Mexico and Chile observe their independence days on September 16 and 
September 18. Since its inception as National Hispanic Heritage Week in 
1968, which later became National Hispanic Heritage Month in 1988, 
Americans have taken this time to not only honor the rich culture and 
traditions of Hispanic Americans, but also to reflect on the tremendous 
impact Hispanic Americans have had within their communities and 
throughout our nation. The tireless efforts of generations of Hispanic 
Americans have resulted in a better America.
   America's success is reliant upon the rich heritage and cultural 
diversity of its people. Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the many 
Hispanic leaders and members of our communities who have added to the 
prosperity of the United States in every facet of our society.
   Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask you and my other distinguished 
colleagues to once again join me in recognizing Hispanic Heritage 
Month. Throughout America's history, present, and future, the Hispanic 
community has played and will continue to play a major role in 
enriching the quality of life for the people of the United States, and 
for their outstanding contributions they are worthy of our respect and 
gratitude.

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