| The word "Recognition" is defined in the dictionary as the acknowledgment of achievement, service, and merit. The contributions of Hispanics to the development and success of America are woven into almost every segment of the nation's history. To envision America untouched by Latinos is to imagine a country without much of its folklore and many of its achievements. Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the Latino contribution to the development of the United States as a country. It also lets us recognize that America's cultural diversity--and the contributions of all its citizens--have made America's fabric strong throughout its history. The United States has a rich history that goes back 218 years. Hispanics have always played major roles in building this country and making it a better place.
More than 400,000 Hispanics served the U.S. during World War II. About 25,000 served in the Persian Gulf War and many more now in Iraq. In the words of Edward James Olmos, “We have worked hard to help build this country and we continue to do so every day. When people see the face of America, they need to also see our images included. Second, as Latinos we often think of Americanos as the others in this country, not us. We, and especially our children, need to see that we are an integral and equal part of this society. Third, we wanted a title that would recognize and honor our bilingual heritage and would be easily understood in both English and Spanish. And finally, we wanted to illustrate that much like a quilt woven with many intricate and beautiful fibers, Latinos are a proud and diverse people interwoven with indigenous, Spanish/European, African, and Asian roots. We are citizens not only of the United States of America, but of all the Americas and Latin American countries around the world.” Latino contributions to the growth and development of the United States have been many. As this nation looks forward to the 21st century, Latinos will continue to play a major role in meeting the challenges ahead. |
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