[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 15]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 20465]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. PATRICK J. TIBERI

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 30, 2004

  Mr. TIBERI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of National 
Hispanic Heritage Month, and in special recognition of Hispanics in 
central Ohio and throughout our country.
  During this designated month, America celebrates the culture and 
traditions of our friends and neighbors with Hispanic roots. Hispanics 
are now the largest minority group in the United States. The 2000 
Census found that 35.3 million people identified themselves as Hispanic 
American. That represents a 58 percent increase from the 1990 Census.
  Beyond the data, the reality is that Hispanics are an integral part 
of America's social fabric. I am proud that the state of Ohio is home 
to more than 217,000 residents of Hispanic/Latino descent. Hispanic 
Americans continue to make great strides in education, employment, 
health, homeownership, and economic mobility. This is a result of a set 
of values that includes a strong work ethic, family values, and service 
to community.
  Hispanic Americans in central Ohio serve the community in numerous 
capacities. In particular, recent immigrants unfamiliar with the 
English language are served by Spanish interpreters who help provide 
them access to health care, education, legal assistance and other vital 
services. Mi Directorio Hispana, a business directory, and Spanish 
newspapers in central Ohio, like La Voz Hispana, connect Hispanics with 
the community and keep them informed. The Ohio Hispanic Coalition, a 
nonprofit outreach organization, and the Ohio Commission of Hispanic/
Latino Affairs serve as advocates for the needs of Hispanic people and 
help to promote good relations among the community-at-large.
  Mr. Speaker, the Hispanic community is a vital part of central Ohio 
and our country. As we move forward as a nation, it is important to 
pursue policies that can further expand opportunities for Hispanic 
Americans. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in support and in 
honor of Hispanic Americans, their culture and traditions, and their 
work and service that contributes to the greatness of this nation.

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