Washington, DC- (Friday, May 4, 2012) – Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement in recognition of Cinco de Mayo:

“Cinco de Mayo marks a historic day when we come together and celebrate the significant contributions that Mexican-Americans, and all Hispanics have made to help strengthen our country.  This day recognizes the historic triumph of the Mexican people over the French Army in the battle of Puebla in 1862, 150 years ago.  The contributions of Hispanics throughout America’s history are a source of pride to our Nation.

Latinos are a fast growing minority group with 51 million Hispanics living in the United States – 63 percent of which are of Mexican descent.  Hispanics have the largest minority-owned business community, and Latino workers continue to drive the growth of the labor force. 

Democrats are fighting to create jobs for Hispanic men and women, to make college more affordable for Hispanic young people, to protect Social Security and Medicare for the millions of Hispanic seniors who rely on these programs. 

I will continue working with my colleagues to preserve the American dream for all Americans, including Hispanics, by building upon the pillars that have always made our economy strong— small businesses, entrepreneurs, and a thriving middle class,” stated Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson.

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U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson is the highest-ranking Texan on the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure and a senior member of the Science Committee. She represents the 30th Congressional District of Texas, which, includes Downtown Dallas, Fair Park, Oak Lawn, Turtle Creek,Old East Dallas, Pleasant Grove, & South Oak Cliff; all of Balch Springs, DeSoto, Hutchins, Lancaster & Wilmer and parts of Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Ferris, Glenn Heights and Ovilla.