[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 126 (Wednesday, July 23, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E715]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE 77TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN G.I. FORUM

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOAQUIN CASTRO

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 23, 2025

  Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of the 
American G.I. Forum's 77th anniversary. It is an honor to shed light on 
an organization who dedicates itself to strengthening our democracy and 
building a legacy of service.
  Dr. Hector P. Garcia founded the American G.I. Forum in 1948 to 
address the inequalities Hispanics faced in the postwar era. Dr. Garcia 
mobilized veterans like himself, who valiantly served our Nation, to 
advocate for the growth and development of communities in need. From a 
single chapter in Texas, the American G.I. Forum quickly expanded 
throughout the state and country.
  The organization began to achieve widespread notoriety for its work 
within the community. It improved access to government hospitals for 
veterans, ended the poll tax in Texas, created pre-schools for Spanish 
speaking children, and improved equity for veterans' burial services. 
The organization broke down barriers for veterans in housing and 
education, reaching those that the country had forgotten about.
  After 77 years, the American G.I. Forum continues advocating for 
equitable opportunities. For our veterans and their families, they 
offer essential services that address issues ranging from healthcare 
accessibility to workforce readiness and housing. Additionally, they 
work to empower our youth by offering scholarships to students 
intending to enroll in higher education. It is through their efforts 
that our communities continue to take the steps forward to ensure a 
strong and thriving democracy.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize to the American G.I. Forum and 
their accomplishments in serving our Nation.

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