Hoyer Statement on Cinco de Mayo

Statement

House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on Cinco de Mayo:

"Throughout the United States today, Americans of Mexican heritage will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo and honoring the courageous patriots who fought both to preserve independence and liberty. Cinco de Mayo serves as a reminder of the enduring ties between the United States and Mexico and is a symbol of an unshakable truth: our destinies are bound together. What unites us -- in culture, in commerce, and in common dreams -- ought to bring us closer in pursuit of shared opportunities. Walls are not meant to keep friends apart; no barrier can divide those whom nature has placed side by side to work together toward common goals.

"The more than 30 million Mexican-Americans living in this country today and millions more throughout history have made enormous contributions to our nation. I'm proud to serve in the House alongside Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, including many distinguished Mexican-American lawmakers. Together, we will oppose President Trump's attempts to conduct mass deportations and split apart families, and we will work to help DREAMers remain in the only country they've ever called home. President Trump ought to use this Cinco de Mayo to acknowledge the positive contributions of Mexican-Americans and apologize for past statements he has made that were deeply offensive.

"On this Cinco de Mayo, let us honor the memory of the patriots of Puebla, who laid the groundwork for a partnership between their country and ours that continues to benefit both to this day."

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