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LIBRE Commemorates Hispanic Heritage Month

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LIBRE Commemorates Hispanic Heritage Month
Embracing a Shared Path to the American Dream  

(Washington, D.C.) – In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson proclaimed the week of September 15 as a period of observation of the contributions of Americans whose ancestors or themselves had emigrated to the United States from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded that week to cover a 30 day period between September 15 and October 15, which we now know as Hispanic Heritage Month. The time frame was chosen to honor several Latin American countries' independence days, which fall within this period, as well as Columbus Day. 

Throughout this month, LIBRE will be commemorating the ways that Hispanics continue to contribute to a strong and vibrant America. On social media we will feature individuals who have been leaders in their industries and communities. Our website will host a new infographic series highlighting the ways that Hispanics live and contribute to the American dream. And across the country we will be hosting events to celebrate America's Hispanic heritage. 

Daniel Garza, Executive Director of The LIBRE Initiative, released the following statement:  

"Today begins a month long celebration of the opportunities that America has bestowed on our Hispanic community as well as the countless contributions Hispanics themselves have made to American life. Our community is a diverse one, composed of recent immigrants and many who have been here for generations, who play a vital role in shaping our country. Many have paid the ultimate price – sacrificing their lives in defense of their countrymen and in defense of freedom. We have a history of pride, self-reliance and hard work in pursuit of the American dream – a heritage of millions of Latinos who came here for the freedom to prosper, and who have built better lives for themselves and their loved ones. 

Like most other immigrants, Latinos came to this country to get away from governments that deprived them of those freedoms. According to the Pew Hispanic Center "trends project," 87 percent believe the opportunity to get ahead is better in the United States than their country of origin and 72 percent say the conditions for raising children are better in America than elsewhere. At LIBRE, we believe that our path to the American dream is one we all share. As we reflect on the lessons of our past, we are renewed in our commitment to build a better tomorrow for our families and our nation." 

For interviews with a LIBRE representative, please contact: Brian Faughnan, 703-678-4581 or Steven Cruz, 202-578-6173

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