[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 15]
[Senate]
[Page 22570]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                    HONORING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

  Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 
celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. As one of America's 
largest ethnic groups, the Hispanic American community embodies the 
true spirit of our country as a land where people from all over the 
world can come to for the chance to pursue their dreams.
  For countless years, Hispanic Americans have played an integral role 
in American society. This has been characterized by a strong work 
ethic, deep sense of faith and unwavering commitment to both family and 
community. Throughout the history of our country, the contributions of 
Hispanic Americans in areas such as public service, business, 
entertainment, and the sciences have been lasting and have made America 
a stronger nation.
  Today, there are more than 31 million Hispanic Americans living in 
the United States, and they represent nearly 12 percent of our total 
population. The Hispanic American community in New Jersey includes more 
than 1 million residents, with roots from all over the world, including 
Europe, the Carribean, and both South and Central America.
  I am proud to have the opportunity to represent a State with one of 
the largest concentrations of Hispanic Americans in the entire country. 
The vibrant Hispanic American communities across the State have given 
New Jerseyans a window into their cultures and heritage. We have also 
been fortunate to have members of these communities take on important 
roles in our public life. In New Jersey, we have Hispanic Americans 
representing some of our nation's most diverse communities in both the 
State legislature and the United States Congress, and dozens more hold 
elected office at the county and local levels.
  As we begin a new century, it is projected that nearly 25 percent of 
America will be of Hispanic origin by 2050. At the same time, the 
widespread influence of Hispanic Americans is touching all of our 
communities, transcending


racial and ethnic boundaries on a daily basis. I have no doubt that as 
America's Hispanic American community grows, it will maintain the 
legacy that it has built while also adding a new chapter to its rich 
history as an important piece of the American mosaic.

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