NEW HAVEN, CT—Today Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) joined millions of Americans in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15. Her remarks can also be viewed here.

“This is Hispanic Heritage Month, a time when we recognize and honor the many contributions of Hispanic Americans to our national life. From the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 to the settling of the West, from the Bracero Program during World War II to the Mariel Boatlift in 1980, Hispanic Americans have been central to the fabric of our national story for centuries.
 
“This month gives us a chance to celebrate the passion for social justice that influenced historic labor leaders like Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta; to explore the artistic contributions of Hispanic-Americans such as Isabelle Allende, Junot Diaz, Rita Moreno, and Anthony Quinn; to learn of the Nobel-prize winning discoveries of scientists like Luis Walter Alvarez and Severo Ochoa. Celebrating Hispanic American heritage this month is about recognizing the contributions and achievements of all of these men and women who helped forge our nation.  And it is about reminding us of the many challenges we still face.
 
“One in four Latinos nationwide lived in poverty in 2012 – ten points higher than the overall poverty rate. In 2011, the foreclosure rate for Hispanic families was double that of white families and in 2012 their median income was $18,000 less than the overall median income.
 
“This must change. But only by appreciating the struggles of the past can we continue to press forward. So this Hispanic Heritage Month, let us take the time to reflect on those who have changed our nation, and let us strive to follow in their footsteps. In the words of one of my heroes, Cesar Chavez, ‘We need to help…cherish and preserve the ethnic and cultural diversity that nourishes and strengthens this community – and this nation.’ Thank you.


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