[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 134 (Wednesday, July 29, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E698]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN LATINO ACT

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                               speech of

                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 27, 2020

  Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2420, 
This bill would direct the Smithsonian Institution to create a National 
Museum of the American Latino, This museum would highlight the 
important contributions made by Latinos and Latinas throughout the 
history of the United States.
  As a Texan, I have seen firsthand the contributions made by Latino 
Americans through science and culture. The history of Texas is 
intertwined with contributions made by people of Latin origin. From 
their role in Texas declaring its independence from Mexico, to the food 
we eat and the music we listen to today. Simply put, my state would not 
be where it is today without these individuals and their cultural 
influences.
  For too long, we have failed our brothers and sisters in the Latino 
community by not giving them the space to share their journey through 
the history of our country. In fact, it is likely that anti-immigrant 
voices that arise from some corners of our country are there simply due 
to a lack of knowledge and understanding of the roles Latino Americans 
have played throughout the history of the United States and the impact 
that they have on our culture today.
  Madam Speaker, it is my hope that the National Museum of the American 
Latino will provide clarity to all Americans on the important role of 
Latino Americans in our American story I hope this museum will also 
allow the over 58 million Latinos and Latinas that call the United 
States home to remember and celebrate how their values, culture, and 
heroes are also those of this country.

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