National Hispanic Heritage Month
Floor Speech
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Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and sincere admiration that I rise to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month and its 2019 theme, Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving Our Nation. From September 15, 2019, through October 15, 2019, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the people of the United States will once again celebrate the cultures and traditions and reflect on the many exceptional contributions our Hispanic brothers and sisters have made throughout our country's history.
Hispanic Heritage Month, which begins each year on September 15, recognizes the anniversaries of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile observe their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Since its inception as National Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, which later became National Hispanic Heritage Month in 1988, Americans have taken this time to not only honor the rich culture and traditions of Hispanic Americans, but also to reflect on the steadfast impact Hispanic Americans have had within their communities and throughout our nation. The diligent efforts of generations of Hispanic Americans have resulted in a better America.
America's success is reliant upon the rich heritage and cultural diversity of its people. Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the many Hispanic leaders and members of our communities who have added to the prosperity of the United States in every facet of our society.
Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to once again join me in recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month. Throughout America's history, present, and future, the Hispanic community has played and will continue to play a vital role in enriching the quality of life for the people of the United States and, for their remarkable contributions, they are worthy of our deepest respect and gratitude.
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