Washington, DC (September 14, 2006) – Congressman Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15) today issued the following statement on the death of former Texas Governor Ann Richards: 

“Governor Richards was a woman of incomparable spirit, wit, intelligence, and heart.  She was a trailblazer who opened the world of public service and politics to women and minorities in her beloved home state of Texas as, well as throughout the country.

“Over the years, her commitment to South and Central Texas was evident.  In 1993, Governor Richards signed the bill to create South Texas Community College, now South Texas College.  Without Governor Richards’ direct insight and involvement in granting us a three year waiver in not requiring a taxing district, the creation of the school simply would not have been possible.  Today, the college, with 17,000 students, is responsible for contributing to our local economy through workforce and job training programs, has directly contributed to the drop in the region’s unemployment rate, and extends education opportunities for so many students.  She also helped to streamline the state’s government and helped create programs and opportunities for Texas’ economy to flourish at a time when the country’s languished.

“It is incumbent upon all of us to continue the legacy started by Ann Richards decades ago:  lend voice to the disadvantaged and disenfranchised; give Americans a leg-up, not a hand-out; and, create opportunities for all to participate in their government.  It is a legacy she was proud of, and one I will not forget.  She will be missed by so many, and especially by me.”