[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 22769]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




            OBSERVATION OF NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

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                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 25, 2009

  Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National 
Hispanic Heritage Month. The observation of September as National 
Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 with the designation of Hispanic 
Heritage Week. It was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to 
cover a 30-day period. Now, every year from September 15 to October 15, 
we proudly celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of 
Americans whose ancestry includes Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and 
Central and South America.
  The founding of the United States of America was predicated on the 
idea that all men are created equal and that America would be a place 
where anyone could achieve and succeed. That success should know no 
boundaries.
  This year's theme for National Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the 
role Hispanic Americans have played in making that dream a reality. 
Their strength and hard work, anchored by a deep love for family and 
country, has helped shape our society for the better.
  I commend the proud history of all Hispanic Americans and ask that 
all Americans honor National Hispanic Heritage Month. The richness of 
Hispanic culture and the contributions of Hispanic Americans have made 
our country a better nation.

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