Washington, DC - Rep. Gene Green today marked the first week of Hispanic Heritage Month by praising the many contributions made by the Latino community to our nation.  Hispanic Heritage Month has been celebrated since 1988; previous to 1988, the United States celebrated Hispanic Heritage Week, beginning in 1968.

 

“It is important to remember that the strength of our nation comes from its great diversity.  Celebrations such as Hispanic Heritage Month are important for recognizing the great contributions that the many immigrant communities have made to our country throughout the years,” said Green.  “The impact Hispanic Americans have made in this country, and especially in Houston, has been significant.  Latinos have made social, economic, and political contributions, and we should celebrate their extraordinary heritage.  The Hispanic community’s accomplishments are our nation’s accomplishments; they have made us a stronger and more prosperous nation.”

 

Latinos are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population, currently representing 12.5% of the total population.  They represent 37.4% of the population in Houston.  According to the 2000 Census, they are now the largest minority group in the U.S.  Their purchasing power has grown over 156% in the past 7 years, reaching approximately $452 billion in 2001. It is projected to top $1 trillion by 2010.  Population increases and higher incomes for U.S. Hispanics are translating into a greater share of the U.S. consumer market.

 

“One of the most significant contributions made by Latinos is to our national defense.  Hispanics have fought for the United States in every war beginning with the American Revolution.  Thirty-eight Hispanic Americans have the received the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest award for valor.  Currently, there are approximately 80,000 Hispanic men and women on active duty and over 1,000,000 Hispanic veterans living in the United States,” added Green.

 

“My Democratic colleagues and I have always stood with the Hispanic community.  Latinos are a rapidly growing segment of our electorate, and we Democrats are proud of our longstanding commitment to issues important to this community.  As we have in the past, we will walk the walk every day, not just on election day,” concluded Green.