DeLauro Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15-October 15

NEW HAVEN, CT—Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) released the following statement today celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated from September 15-October 15.

"Our Hispanic communities have enhanced and shaped Connecticut's past, present and future. Our Latino community has so much diverse and unique talent and they contribute to nearly every facet of our economic, social and cultural development. From Casa Oto?al and the Spanish Community of Wallingford to the Spanish American Merchants Association, LaVóz, and ARTE, their rich and vibrant culture is an integral part of our character. They are small business owners, teachers and community leaders, and this month we celebrate their heritage and culture.

"Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month reminds us of our broken immigration system and the urgent need for immigration reform. Congress must act on a comprehensive solution that both allows 11 million people to come out of the shadows and strengthens our borders."

September 15 is the first day of Hispanic Heritage Month because it is the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries:

·        Costa Rica

·        El Salvador

·        Guatemala

·        Honduras

·        Nicaragua

Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and 18, respectively.

According to the Census Bureau, there are about half a million Hispanics living in Connecticut, making them the largest minority group in Connecticut.