Joe Baca: “today Americans and individuals will observe the Mexican holiday of Cinco de Mayo with celebrations and festivities. But…”

“today Americans and individuals will observe the Mexican holiday of Cinco de Mayo with celebrations and festivities. But sadly, most Americans do not know what we are really celebrating. That is why I have introduced H. Con. Res. 44, which recognizes the historical significance of Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo is the anniversary of the date in 1862 on which the Mexican army, outnumbered, defeated the French in the Battle of Puebla, because they believed in the values of freedom and liberty, the same values that we celebrate today in the United States. Today, that same spirit is evident in Mexican-American culture, and we pay tribute to that great spirit on Cinco de Mayo. Latinos have fought in all of America's wars, beginning with the Revolutionary War. They have given their lives, the ultimate sacrifice, for the freedoms that we enjoy here today. Many Latinos are fighting and dying today in Iraq. The foundation of our Nation was built by people from many nations and diverse cultures that were willing to fight and die for freedom. We observe today Cinco de Mayo. Let us remember what it stands for and why many individuals have given their lives for this day. ____________________”