Hoyer Statement on Hispanic Heritage Month

Statement

House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, which begins tomorrow, September 15:

"As we celebrate the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, let us keep in our hearts the children who remain held in detention, alone and afraid. Separated at the border after fleeing violence in Central America, their families need us to be their advocates, and I can think of no better way to observe this month than to channel our energy into action. The same goes for our nation's DREAMers, living in a state of great uncertainty, as well as for our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico, who are still struggling to rebuild even a year after devastating hurricanes. My colleagues in the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) have been fighting hard for all of them, and I will continue to partner with the CHC to demand that the Republican-led Congress not ignore these issues or fail to hold the Trump Administration accountable for its actions.

"As we continue to call for action to address these challenges, we also reflect this month on the proud history of Latinos and Latinas in this country and their contributions to America. That heritage reminds us of our highest principles -- of inclusion, respect, and the absorption of newcomers into the broader American fabric -- which is now being threatened by the spread of xenophobic attitudes and by the Trump Administration's dangerous policies. We cannot assume that past is prologue, that what we celebrate today will guide us into the future; we must put our own hands to the work of preserving and teaching the lessons of Hispanic American history and heritage to ensure that our country lives up to that history as we chart our path into the uncertain future. As we celebrate this month, let us recommit ourselves to making that future one of justice, equality, and opportunity."

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