Kay Bailey Hutchison: “Today we honor our Nation's first Mexican-American Federal judge, Judge Reynaldo G. Garza. I am proud to cosponsor…”

“Today we honor our Nation's first Mexican-American Federal judge, Judge Reynaldo G. Garza. I am proud to cosponsor legislation with Senator Gramm to name the new Federal courthouse in Brownsville for Judge Garza. In this way, we will record for generations to come Judge Garza's selfless service to the city of Brownsville, to Texas and to our Nation. Traditionally, we reserve this honor for judges who no longer walk the courthouse halls. However, we wish to grant an exception for this exceptional man. Born of immigrant parents, Reynaldo Garza has paved a hopeful path for other immigrant sons. After distinguishing himself as a lawyer, he served on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District until his appointment to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in 1979 by President Carter. As the first Mexican-American to achieve these distinctions, Judge Garza truly personifies the pioneer spirit of this great Nation. I would like Judge Garza to be remembered as well for his gracious response to this action. Upon learning that the courthouse might be named for him, Judge Garza said simply, "I'm humbled by the fact that somebody would even think I'm worthy of it." Indeed, no one is worthier than Judge Garza of this small token of our respect and admiration.”