Political Quotes

“Mr. President, every year since 1988, we have honored the achievements of the Latino community in the United States through Hispanic Heritage Month. My friend and mentor, Senator Paul Simon, was part of the effort to establish this important time to honor the contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities throughout American history, filled with stories of inspiration and courage. Today, I continue Paul's work by taking the time to honor this rich history and celebrate the leaders paving the way for a brighter future of this Nation. Illinois is home to a large and vibrant Latino community. I have had the privilege of meeting Latino people from many walks of life, from Dreamers who grew up here, to newly arrived refugees fleeing tyranny. While their stories all differ, they share common themes of hope, resilience, and determination. In their stories, I see my family's story. My mother and her family escaped oppression to find freedom here in America. Many families have followed that same journey to provide a better life in Illinois and across the country. It is not easy to leave your home to travel to an unfamiliar place. But with their courage, they brought diverse cultures, sharing music, food, traditions, and history. The Latino community has made an indelible mark on Illinois through small businesses, top-performing Hispanic-serving institutions, and beautiful cultural centers and museums.…”