Today, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), the first Mexican-American woman elected to Congress and a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), released the following video in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uvz2jD3UicU.

Below is a copy of Rep. Roybal-Allard’s statement:

“Hello, I’m Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard.  As the first Mexican-American woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, I am happy to help celebrate September 15th through October 15th as Hispanic Heritage Month.

“This is a time we honor the economic, social, and cultural contributions that Latinos have made throughout our country’s history, including in my 40th Congressional District.  Latinos serve in our armed forces, own businesses, educate our children, deliver our health care, and occupy top positions in our government.  America’s Latinos share the same aspirations as other Americans: to have a good-paying job, to own a home, to save for their children’s higher education, to have a secure retirement, and to keep our country safe.  

“Latinos also believe in the need for comprehensive immigration reform.  Fixing our broken immigration system will enable millions of aspiring Americans to come out of the shadows and openly contribute to our nation.  In June 2013, the Senate passed a common-sense, comprehensive immigration reform bill on an overwhelming bipartisan vote.  I hoped the House would follow the Senate’s lead and bring the bill to a vote.  Unfortunately, the House Republican leaders blocked a vote, and the bill died.

“Not passing comprehensive immigration reform weakens our economy, and deprives us of the talents of our large, diverse, and industrious immigrant population.  As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I pledge to continue fighting for comprehensive immigration reform and for policies that will strengthen and expand the middle class, so that hardworking Latino families – and all Americans – have a chance to achieve the American Dream.

“¡Gracias y feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana!  Thank you, and happy Hispanic Heritage Month!”

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