Rubén Hinojosa: “it is a privilege to participate in today's tribute to the Honorable Henry B. Gonzalez. A maverick, a pioneer, a man of…”

“it is a privilege to participate in today's tribute to the Honorable Henry B. Gonzalez. A maverick, a pioneer, a man of conviction--there aren't too many people I would use these words to describe. The deal of our delegation, however, is one such individual. Our distinguished dean came to the House of Representatives in 1961, before any other Hispanics were elected from the State of Texas. He laid the foundation for those of us who have since followed. For all you have done--for your constituents--for the Hispanic community--for the underprivileged--for all Americans--I want to say thank you. In the brief time I have been in Congress, I unfortunately have not had the good fortune to be able to work closely with you. But I am well acquainted with your remarkable achievements. It is because of the commitment you have always demonstrated that I know why it is so important to work tirelessly for the causes and issues we believe in. You have taught us why we must be dedicated to the pursuit of excellence. You have shown how goals are, indeed, attainable, but not always easy to achieve. More importantly, you have shown that within each and every one of us there is the potential to make a real difference in the world we live in, but that to make such a difference, one must be involved. Chairman Gonzalez, you have made Congress a better place--you have made Texas a better place--and you have made America a better place.”