[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 98 (Tuesday, June 6, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E525]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





             CELEBRATING CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 5, 2023

  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues of the 
Congressional Black Caucus for holding this special order today to give 
recognition and to celebrate National Caribbean American Heritage 
Month.
  National Caribbean American Heritage Month was officially signed into 
law in 2006 to help create and disseminate knowledge about the rich 
culture and contributions of Caribbean people to the United States.
  This is a special time when we honor the achievements and dreams of 
the millions of people of Caribbean origin now living in the United 
States, while also giving life and remembrance to the shared history of 
joy and perseverance that has united and enriched lives throughout and 
across the United States and the Caribbean for centuries.
  Since our Nation's founding, generation after generation of 
immigrants have helped build this country, and the prosperity and 
opportunity that draw so many immigrants to America would not be 
possible without the contributions and legacies of Caribbean Americans.
  Today, millions of Caribbean Americans strengthen our country through 
their vibrant cultures, traditions, languages, and values.
  Yes, Caribbean American entrepreneurs, scientists, medical 
professionals, teachers, artists, police officers, athletes, and 
contributors in every field have left a lasting impact on our society 
and continue to greatly impact our nation's growth and development as a 
global mecca for advancement and opportunity.
  Approximately 4.5 million Caribbean immigrants resided in the United 
States in 2019, representing 10 percent of the Nation's 44.9 million 
total foreign-born population.
  Close to 90 percent of immigrants in the United States from the 13 
Caribbean countries and 17 dependent territories come from one of four 
countries: Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Haiti.
  The Caribbean is the most common region of birth for the 4.5 million 
Black immigrants in the United States, accounting for 46 percent of the 
total. Jamaica (16 percent) and Haiti (15 percent) are the two largest 
origin countries for Black immigrants.
  Although Caribbean Americans continue to succeed in the United 
States, we must acknowledge the barriers and disparities that they 
continue to face.
  And as members of the Congressional Black Caucus, we must look to 
address all barriers for Black immigrants and protect Caribbean 
Americans, including but implementing comprehensive immigration reform.
  America's strength is rooted in its diversity, which is why it is of 
incredible importance to honor Caribbean Americans not just this month, 
but every month.

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