Vicente Gonzalez: “During one of the most divisive times in American history, I rise today in a moment of American optimism. In this…”

“During one of the most divisive times in American history, I rise today in a moment of American optimism. In this freshly minted 116th Congress, the most diverse in our history, I welcome all new Members, young and old; Democrats and Republicans; from the North, South, East, or West; male or female; gay or straight; Jew or gentile. And I ask you to join me in this journey of optimism. Today is the beginning of the rest of our history, the history of the opportunity we have before us to solve the Nation's critical issues that are happening today, the everyday problems that our people live with, in our diverse land. Let us never forget who we are and the greatness we have shown the world. Let us never forget that this is the America that freed slaves, granted religious freedoms, fed the hungry, and welcomed the stranger; the America that spread democracy and freedom around the globe; the America that freed Europe and defended others from bullies and foes; the America that gave the world electricity and light. We put the first man on the Moon, flew the first woman across the pond, and created the internet and the iPhone and, yes, Facebook and Twitter, too. We gave the world baseball and proudly root for our Olympians who lead the world in medals. We entertain the world with Hollywood, MTV, and American pop, hip-hop, Tejano, country, rock `n' roll, and jazz music. We bring smiles and joy to children around the world through Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.…”