[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 25785]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



      IN HONOR OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CUBAN-AMERICAN WOMEN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 31, 2000

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the National 
Association of Cuban-American Women (NACAW) for promoting excellence 
and achievement for minority women.
  NACAW's philosophy and focus has helped create the support that is 
essential for building a strong community. With an understanding that 
the individual is the building block for the success of every 
community, NACAW has provided excellent support and guidance for Cuban-
American women, and for the community as a whole.
  In pursuit of its goals, NACAW has developed a comprehensive agenda:
  to work with other women's organizations to develop a strong national 
platform in response to common concerns;
  to serve as a forum for Cuban-American women and other minority women 
to ensure their participation and representation in national 
organizations;
  to increase awareness of education and career opportunities for 
Cuban-American women and other minority women;
  to promote participation of Cuban-American women in Hispanic 
community service activities;
  and to accurately portray the characteristics, values, and concerns 
of Cuban-American women.
  Since its founding, NACAW has sponsored a variety of important 
programs:
  NACAW's Educational opportunities Center disseminates information 
about post-secondary programs, scholarships, and financial aid sources.
  NACAW sponsors an annual awards ceremony that honors outstanding 
Cuban-American leaders, as well as leaders outside of the community, 
who have contributed to the advancement of Hispanics.
  In order to maintain the tradition of ``Dia de los Reyes Magos'' 
(``Feast of the Epiphany''), NACAW has sponsored a number of toy-
collection campaigns for disadvantaged children.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the National Association 
of Cuban-American Women for their contributions to the Cuban-American 
community and to the lives of minority women.

                          ____________________