Rangel Celebrates Caribbean-American Heritage Month
Statement
Congressman Charles B. Rangel who represents the 13th Congressional District of New York that includes Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx, released the following statement observing Caribbean-American Heritage Month which takes place in June:
"I am proud to join my friends in celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Caribbean-American Heritage Month, recognizing the extraordinary contributions made by over three million Caribbean-Americans to the success of our nation. Our congressional district boasts one of the largest Dominican and Puerto Rican communities in the country and has become a beautiful mosaic of diversity and talent.
In Harlem stands Alexander Hamilton's home, the Hamilton Grange National Memorial, honoring the life of a Caribbean-born orphan who rose from humble origins to become one of our nation's Founding Fathers. This historic landmark tells the inspiring story of Caribbean heritage in America; a story that is still unfolding in our district today through the talent of actor and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, who was raised by Puerto Rican parents in Washington Heights. Through his award-winning musicals In the Heights and Hamilton, Miranda has highlighted the impact of the Caribbean-American community.
I am proud to be a strong advocate for strengthening the ties between the United States and the Caribbean nations. I worked hard to expand the Caribbean Basin Initiative, to stimulate our trade and commercial relationship with the Caribbean. Since 1993, I have been pushing for the passage of my Free Trade with Cuba Act which would end the Cuban embargo. I have made repeated efforts to foster dialogue between the Dominican Republic and Haiti on migration. Earlier this month, I voted in support of bipartisan the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA), which restructures the Puerto Rican economy and provides access to affordable healthcare and housing services.
I will continue promoting initiatives that improve the lives of families and ensure that the voices of Caribbean-Americans are heard in our district and across the country. Let us keep building an America that not only tolerates, but embraces people from diverse backgrounds, languages, and histories."
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