Gilbert R. Cisneros

If we are saying we want recruitment numbers to go up, we have to acknowledge that we want a broad pool.

I think DEI is going to give us a larger pool to recruit from.

I would say our readiness of our forces is the most important thing. This Nation is ready to be defended by our armed services.

Eventually one day, we're going to be a minority-majority nation.

We do not support racist tweets. We do not support racism in the military.

Every individual that sends their child away to serve their country should be expected that that child is going to be treated with respect and dignity.

Your legislative accomplishments, passion, and constant dedication to work with the Department has made us better and improved lives of countless service members.

One of the things that we continually hear from the chain of command is they want to do the right thing but they don't have the tools.

We do not take this mission lightly. We know this is about protecting our service members.

That starts with leadership and it's going to start with leadership from the top.

We need to build trust in our service members again.

It's going to take leadership at the top and we have that leadership at the top that is dedicated to making this change.

Today I stand here humbled and honored to have had the opportunity to serve the people of California's 39th District in the 116th Congress. When I was 18, I wanted to serve my country, so I joined the United States Navy, and that is what I…

I, too, was very disturbed by Vanessa Guillen's death.

I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the National Museum of the American Latino Act. The Latino community has and continues to play a pivotal role in the growth and success of the United States. For…

During this pandemic, many companies and individuals in California's 39th have gone above and beyond to help and support others. Some have donated PPE; others raised money; some even changed their entire business operation to support the…

At this moment of incredible economic uncertainty, we must work together to help our small businesses survive this crisis.

I urge the Committee to direct lenders to prioritize PPP loans for small businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, and those in underserved and rural markets.

Our country is in a crisis, and the American people are looking to Congress for action and leadership. That is why I stand in support of the CARES Act, which provides our workers, small businesses, healthcare workers, and so many more in…

I have an amendment at the desk. The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will designate the amendment. The text of the amendment is as follows: Add at the end the following: SEC. 7. VETERANS HIRING. The Secretary shall prioritize the hiring of…

I want to thank my colleague, Mr. Thompson, for his steadfast leadership on this critical issue and for working with me to ensure that this amendment be made in order. Mr. Chair, I rise to offer an amendment which would require the…

I am prepared to close. Mr. Chairman, I just want to reiterate this is a simple amendment in support of our Nation's veterans. I urge my colleagues to adopt the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

In 1960 my mother's life changed dramatically forever. That was the year her father was murdered through an act of gun violence. She was just 10 years old and my grandmother became a widow with six children left to raise on her own. This…

It is with great pride that I rise today to honor and congratulate 13 elementary schools in California's 39th District for their selection as 2020 California Distinguished Schools. The 39th District elementary schools awarded this…

When I was 18 years old, I joined the United States Navy and took the oath to support and defend the Constitution for the first time. I took that oath again earlier this year as a Member of Congress; and every day I work hard to live by…