Congresswoman Waters Celebrates Cinco de Mayo and Recognizes Hispanic Contributions to Our Nation
Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-35) released the following statement today in celebration of Cinco de Mayo:
"Today I join with millions of Americans in celebrating Cinco de Mayo and moreover in celebrating the importance of Latinos in this country. In particular, we recognize the many contributions Mexican Americans have made and continue to make and how their achievements strengthen our nation.
I am proud to represent all of the residents of California's 35th District. We have diverse communities, including a large Latino population. While the Latino community has expanded in recent years, of course from the very beginning Los Angeles has been home to Latinos as the name of our city itself suggests.
Cinco de Mayo, which marks the historic triumph of the Mexican people over the French Army in the battle of Puebla in 1862, has become a symbol of unity and patriotism in Mexican history. And this date serves as a reminder for us that all peoples – regardless of their race or color – need freedom, liberty and self-determination and that all cultures are worthy of respect. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is also a celebration of the rich cultural heritage Mexican Americans have brought with them for many generations.
Latinos are a vital part of our society, workforce, economy and culture not only in Los Angeles but also throughout California and all across the United States. And Latinos share with other Americans the common goals of freedom, opportunity, and a chance to build a better life.
I am working with my Democratic colleagues in Congress to move our country in a new direction to ensure that the Latino community has every opportunity to reach the American dream. As our nation currently is in an economic downturn, I know that many Latino families, like other American families, are struggling to make ends meet – facing stagnant incomes and skyrocketing gas prices, food prices, college costs, and health care costs. Congress is taking action to address these challenges by enacting an economic stimulus package that provides tax rebates of hundreds of dollars to 130 million households, making college more affordable by cutting the costs of student loans, working on housing legislation that could help 1 to 2 million Americans avoid foreclosure, and passing bills to bring down gas prices.
I will continue to fight for policies that promote fairness, equality, justice and opportunity for all.
On this special day, I express my appreciation to Mexican American and Latino communities for making our economy stronger and our culture more vibrant; and thank you for helping to improve our society."
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