On the recordOctober 7, 2015
As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, I rise today to recognize two true Hispanic leaders in my home district of Omaha, Nebraska. Two remarkable women, Linda Garcia Perez and Magdalena Garcia, have been instrumental in the preservation and advancement of the Latino arts and culture in our area. Linda Garcia Perez has spent 40 years creating, teaching, and exhibiting Mexican/Latino traditions and customs. She incorporates Mexican folk art with basic art instruction to teach English and Spanish-speaking children and adults. She has broadened my community's knowledge and understanding of the Hispanic heritage, as has Magdalena Garcia, the founder and executive director of Omaha's El Museo Latino. The museum is a resource center for Latino studies throughout the Midwest. Of special note, however, are the museum's educational programs, which enlighten students from kindergarten through college as well as adults. The contributions of Linda Garcia Perez and Magdalena Garcia have established a robust environment for the Latino arts and culture in Omaha. It is with great honor that I recognize these two outstanding women. ____________________
