For Immediate Release                                       Contact: Amanda Molk, 202-225-5256
January 28, 2003

Napolitano and the CHC Speak on the State of Hispanics in the U.S.

Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (D-CA38), Vice Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), joined CHC Chair Ciro Rodriguez (D-TX) and other CHC Members at a press conference today regarding the state of Hispanic-Americans. Rep. Napolitano spoke about the economy, job training and the need to focus attention on domestic needs.

“We provided billions of dollars in tax cuts for the wealthiest and bailouts for rich corporations, and our economy hasn’t prospered as we had hoped,” the Congresswoman noted. “Instead, our budget is now even more in the red,” she stated.

Expressing serious concerns regarding the budget, Napolitano continued, “Budget deficits have resulted in enormous cuts to critical job training programs. At a time when tens of thousands of Americans are losing their jobs every month, it is more important than ever that we invest in training our workers so that they can get and keep good jobs with higher wages and secure futures.”

The Congresswoman also addressed a potential war with Iraq. “Now the President wants to enter into a costly war with Iraq. But where will the money for this war, and for the subsequent occupation and rebuilding of Iraq come from? How many more important domestic programs will have to be cut?” Many Members echoed this concern, in particular the lack of funds necessary to protect and defend U.S. communities from a terrorist attack.

“Of course, homeland security remains a top priority. But homeland security must begin at home. We need to provide funding to our municipalities so that they can make our communities secure. We are spending our money everywhere but here, and we need to take care of our people, our communities, and our nation,” Napolitano concluded.

Other CHC Members spoke about other priorities for the Hispanic community, including education, healthcare, veterans’ services, environmental protection and social security.

Representative Grace F. Napolitano, 38th District of California
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