WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Mike Honda issued the following statement in celebration of the Cinco de Mayo holiday and the contributions of the Mexican-American community to American culture, its history and its economy:

“Please join me in celebrating Cinco de Mayo, a day that represents the importance of freedom, liberty and determination for the people of Mexico andMexican-Americans.

"On May 5, 1862, untrained, outnumbered, and outgunned Mexican forces--determined to protect their land--successfully defended the town of Puebla against an invading French Army.

“Though not Mexico’s official independence date, it is of special significance because it reminds us that all peoples -- regardless of their race or color -- need freedom, liberty and self-determination and that all cultures are worthy of respect. For Mexican-Americans, Cinco de Mayo has become a symbol of unity and their heritage.

“As you know, Hispanics are the fastest-growing minority group in the United States and are the largest minority business community -- with 2.5 million businesses generating annual revenues of more than $388 billion in annual revenues. More than 18 percent of the constituents of our district are Hispanic and 9.9 percent of the firms in the district are Hispanic-owned. Their entrepreneurial energy strengthens the American economy at-large.

“And when it comes to sacrifice, Hispanics have historically answered the call of duty for the United States. More than 170,000 Hispanics have been deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan in the past five years.

“Today, I say thank you to the Hispanic community for making our economy stronger and our culture more vibrant.

“I hope you join me this week in celebrating Cinco de Mayo and appreciating the values, traditions, and contributions of Mexican-American culture.”