Hispanic Heritage Month

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH -- (Senate - September 26, 2006)

Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I rise today to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize the valuable contributions and achievements of the Hispanic people of our proud country.

For the nearly 34 years I have represented my home State of New Mexico in the Senate, I have witnessed the growth and success of the Hispanic community in almost every facet of social life. New Mexico's Hispanic community has a long and rich history that dates back centuries. Today, it can claim a long ledger of accomplishments in fields as diverse as science and art, business and sport, medicine and public service.

With respect to the fields of science and military service, I am proud to call attention to the remarkable achievements of Sidney Gutierrez. Born and raised in Albuquerque, Sidney Gutierrez is a distinguished astronaut who has complied over 488 hours in space during his time with NASA. Sidney has been recognized by Hispanic Business Magazine as one of the 100 most influential Hispanics in America, and he has also been a recipient of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Award. Prior to his stellar achievements at NASA, Sidney served his country in the U.S. Air Force after he graduated from the Air Force Academy. What is important to note about Sidney's record is that his isn't an aberration. Today, hundreds of Hispanics serve our Nation's high-tech fields--both in the private sector and for the Government as scientists and researchers at our national laboratories.

Today, many Hispanic people from New Mexico continue to serve their country in the armed services. They have stood up as proud Americans and volunteered to protect their families and communities during the global war on terror. We should also take this moment to remember the sacrifices Hispanics have made to preserve the liberties and freedom that make America a beacon of hope to millions around the world. Just as soldiers from New Mexico distinguished themselves in battles at Battan, Attu, North Africa, Europe, and the Pacific, today men and women in uniform of Hispanic heritage are fighting for their Nation in Afghanistan and Iraq. Our Nation is stronger because of these men and women. They deserve the gratitude of the Nation for their sacrifices.

Hispanic Americans have also been active in other forms of public service. The first Hispanic Congressman in the House of Representatives and the first Hispanic Senator in our Nation's history were from New Mexico. Since it became a State in 1912, New Mexico has been a trailblazer in placing Hispanics into elected office.

The first Hispanic Senator in our Nation's history was a New Mexican by the name of Octaviano Larrazolo. Senator Larrazolo lived a rich life and valued public service above everything else. He was one of the early and important contributors to the constitution of the State of New Mexico and a fearless advocate for statehood. It was no surprise then that the people of New Mexico elected him to serve as their Governor. Throughout his career he was known as an advocate for better education and believed that a strong educational system was the key advancement in our fair and competitive society.

The tradition of Congress celebrating the contributions of Hispanic Americans goes back almost 40 years. In 1968, Congress started by designating a week to celebrate Hispanic heritage. Over the years, we decided to extend the designation to cover a month starting on September 15. The extra time has been a necessary and appropriate change to allow us to recognize the long record of contributions Hispanic Americans have made to our communities and to our Nation. I call on the American people to join with all children, families, organizations, communities, churches, cities, and States across the Nation to observe the month with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

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