Political Quotes

“I rise today to introduce legislation recognizing one of Colorado's most historically significant regions--the San Luis Valley. It is no exaggeration to say that the unique history and culture of the region we commonly call `the Valley' is one of the richest in our state, region, and nation, particularly as an example of early Hispano and Latino settlement. As an avid student of history--like so many of my colleagues--I find that the more I learn and experience the stories, people, and places of the Valley, the more I want to learn. First explored by Spanish Colonial expeditions in the 17th century, Hispano families from Northern New Mexico made many attempts at permanent settlement in this region, but weren't successful until the late 1840s, after the territory became part of Mexico. With the oldest town, San Luis, and the oldest water right, the People's Ditch, in Colorado, the San Luis Valley hosts some of the most intact Mexican territorial settlements in the Southwest. Many descendants of those original settlers continue to live in the region today. But despite this incredibly rich history, millions of people visit Colorado every year who are not familiar with the San Luis Valley. The legislation I am introducing today would create the Sangre de Cristo National Historic Park, named for the stunning mountain range that forms the eastern border of the valley.…”