Rangel Celebrates Cinco De Mayo

Press Release

RANGEL CELEBRATES CINCO DE MAYO

Congressman Charles Rangel joined millions of Latinos and other Americans Monday in celebrating freedom and Mexican culture on Cinco de Mayo.

The day, which marks the historic triumph of the Mexican people over the French Army in the battle of Puebla, has grown to be an important holiday for all people of Mexican heritage, particularly those living in the United States.

"Today, we remember the important contributions that Mexicans and Mexican-Americans have made and continue to make in strengthening our nation," said Rep. Rangel. "Its a special day because it reminds us of the common love that all people -- regardless of their race or color -- have for freedom, liberty and self-determination."

On May 5, 1862, an ill-prepared, outnumbered Mexican army defeated an invading army of professional French soldiers at The Battle of Puebla. The victory is seen by many historians as not only cementing Mexican independence, but also sending a message to all European powers that they would not be able to re-colonize the Western Hemisphere.

"This was an important battle in the story of democracy in the entire Western Hemisphere," said Rangel. "Their achievement legitimized the freedom of the former European colony of Mexico as much as the Battle of Yorktown or the Battle of New Orleans did for the United States."

New York City has seen a surge of Mexican immigration in the last decade, making the ethnic group the third largest immigrant group in the Big Apple. Many of them have settled in Rangel's 15th Congressional District, especially in section known as East Harlem or El Barrio.

"They have come to write a story that is as old as this city itself and have added their own flavor to what makes this city great," said Rangel. "They are not just part of our workforce, but also a growing part of the inner fabric of our neighborhoods. They are not just going to school and opening up small businesses, but they also taking up the call for social justice by organizing with others for safe streets, affordable housing and the kind of laws that will help everyone and not a chosen few."

Rangel said that the day's message of overcoming adversity is particularly inspiring for those who came to this country with the dream of making a better living for their children and loved ones.

"There is a lot of talk these days of the merits of immigration, a lot of hate-filled speeches blaming everything that is wrong with our country on not just Mexicans and Latinos, but any immigrant who tries to give their family a better life in this country," said Rangel. "I can't think of no other day to remember the rich cultural, economic and social contributions that the Mexican people have made to this land."

Added Rangel: "Whether it's been in the classroom, in the boardroom or in the battlefield, Mexicans and Mexican-Americans have proven themselves to be a vital part of this country's past and present. Their contribution represents not just one page in the rich tapestry that is America, but also holds the key to our ability to grow and compete around the globe. Our greatest strength as we move forward does not lie in the size of our military, but in the creativity and diversity of our people."

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