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Introduction of House Resolution to Recognize Chicano/Chicana Heritage Month

Floor Speech

Date: Aug. 15, 2023
Location: Washington, DC

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Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a resolution I proudly introduced earlier this month to recognize Chicano/Chicana Heritage Month.

Although the term ``Chicano'' was previously used as a derogatory term for Mexican Americans, today the Mexican American community has reclaimed ``Chicano'' and ``Chicana'' to empower and uplift the Mexican American identity.

Chicanos and Chicanas from all over--my district in Orange County, the State of California, and the United States as a whole--have significantly contributed to the advancement of our society. Chicanos have aided in scientific advancement, such as the co-invention of the X-ray reflection microscope by Albert Vinicio Baez. Chicanos have pushed the limits of space exploration, like Ellen Ochoa did as the first Hispanic female astronaut. And Chicanos, like Emigido Vasquez and Selena Quintanilla Perez, have added color through our lives through art, music, and fashion.

Chicanos and Chicanas have also served proudly in our Nation's military. These brave patriots fought and sacrificed for our Nation's freedoms. Almost 20 percent of American casualties in the Vietnam War were Chicano and Chicana.

As of 2021, over 37,000,000 Chicanos and Chicanas reside in the United States and make up about 60 percent of America's Latino population. The Chicano population alone makes up almost 12 percent of this country, making Chicano culture an important part of the fabric of our Nation.

In my district, Chicanos and Chicanas make up over 70 percent of the city of Santa Ana--the first major city to recognize August as Chicano Heritage Month last year. This year, I am proud that Anaheim will join the celebrations and commemorate Chicano Heritage all month long.

Mexican Americans in the United States deserve recognition for their achievements and contributions to our country. In that spirit, I was honored to have introduced the Chicano/Chicana Heritage Month Resolution. This resolution would recognize August as Chicano/Chicana Heritage Month and acknowledge the role Chicanos and Chicanas have played in our Nation's biggest triumphs.

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