Congressional Hispanic Caucus Statement on Cinco de Mayo

SAN ANTONIO — Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), issued the following statement in recognition of Cinco de Mayo:

"Cinco de Mayo marks the anniversary of the first Battle of Puebla — the victory of the Mexican army over the French on May 5, 1862 in State of Puebla, Mexico. This is an opportunity not only to celebrate Mexican culture, but also remember the generations of immigrants from Mexico that enrich our economy, democracy, and American society.

"This year Cinco de Mayo celebrations will be a little different whether at home or virtual, but nevertheless they will represent the strength, determination, and courage of the Mexican people. This spirit is exemplified by the essential workers on the frontlines of the coronavirus crisis such as farmworkers, meatpackers, caregivers, doctors and nurses, and many others who are risking their lives for all of us. We will continue to push in Congress for safer working conditions for essential workers, and each of us can do our part to honor their sacrifice by staying homes and saving lives."

"The Latino community lost of two-thirds of our wealth in the Great Recession, and now Latino families are disproportionately affected by this unprecedented health and economic crisis. Nearly one-in-five Latinos are uninsured. Millions of American citizens in mixed-status families were denied stimulus checks and discriminated against simply for who they chose to marry. As we face a challenging road to recovery, let's remember our communities have overcome insurmountable challenges in the past. Cinco de Mayo is a moment to be joyful and recognize the resiliency of the Latino community in the face of adversity."

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The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), founded in December 1976, is organized as a Congressional Member organization, governed under the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives. The CHC is dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics in the United States, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories.