Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, commemorating the extraordinary contributions that Hispanic-Americans have made to our country throughout history. During this one-month period of celebration and tribute, we honor the culture and achievements of the Hispanic community, all of which have played a historic role in our Nation.
I am proud, honored and privileged to represent a region in Congress that is extraordinarily diverse and home to many citizens who are of Hispanic heritage. To commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month, I would like to highlight the remarkable accomplishments of an organization in my district committed to serving its neighbors.
Founded in 1946, La Casa de San Gabriel Community Center is a family community ministry serving 5,800 clients per year, ranging from infants to the elderly. La Casa is unique in that it is a centrally located facility addressing the multicultural needs and interests of its diverse community--primarily Hispanic and Native American working poor--in their efforts to overcome the barriers of underemployment, poverty, inadequate housing, limited education, and lack of medical care. These efforts on behalf of the community have been extraordinary.
Today, with an estimated Hispanic population of over 38 million in our country, we must also recognize that our efforts to commemorate Hispanic culture should not be limited merely to a one-month period.
In addition to recognizing great accomplishments, we must also demonstrate our commitment to ensuring equality of opportunity for all Americans. Specifically, we must ensure that educational resources are readily available to all Americans. Since the future of our children is perhaps one of our most vital priorities, educational programs such as Head Start need to be supported and funded, rather than cut from our minority communities. We must also support economic empowerment and provide economic security for all Americans and work to ensure access to health care for the uninsured and underserved.
Cesar Chavez once said, ``We need to help students and parents cherish and preserve the ethnic and cultural diversity that nourishes and strengthens this community and this Nation.'' As we reflect on Mr. Chavez's words and on this month of festivities and celebrations to honor Hispanic-Americans, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to civil rights for all Americans and promote increased representation in Government from all facets of our diverse country.