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Velázquez on Hispanic Heritage Month

September 17, 2018

Velázquez on Hispanic Heritage Month

Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement today recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month:

"Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity for all Americans to pay tribute to the history, culture and achievements of our Latino communities. Whether by starting new businesses, protecting our freedoms by serving in our Armed forces, or advancing scientific and cultural contributions, Hispanic Americans help shape every facet of American life.

"While this month provides opportunity to celebrate our progress, it is also a stark reminder of the work that remains to advance justice for Hispanic Americans. Throughout his presidency, President Trump and his Administration have promoted cruel policies that seek to vilify and dehumanize immigrants and Latinos. As a society, we must denounce the President's xenophobic tendencies as an affront to American values. Acting in this vein, our government has a moral imperative to pass protections for Dreamers, reunite families separated under the President's zero-tolerance policy and rebuild Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria took the lives of nearly 3,000 American citizens.

"This Hispanic Heritage Month, let us reflect on the invaluable contributions of our Latino brothers and sisters. Let us also continue the necessary work of building a better future, one that honors America's commitment to opportunity for all."