National Hispanic Heritage Month
Posted Oct 03, 2003

President George Bush declared September 15, 2003 to October 15, 2003 to be National Hispanic Heritage Month. During this period, the President asks public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe the month with ceremonies, activities, and programs celebrating the heritage of Hispanics to the United States.
 
Heritage months are a time to reflect on the collective contributions of particular ethnic groups that comprise the United States. Though the diversity of our nation should be celebrated every day, we applaud President Bush's recognition that approximately 9 percent of our active-duty military is of Hispanic descent; that more than 36 individuals of Hispanic heritage have earned the prestigious Medal of Honor; and that a Cuban immigrant became the CEO of Coca-Cola, one of the largest corporations in the U.S.
 
When our leaders recognize the benefits of having diversity in the U.S., it is a victory for those who believe that the greatness of America lies in its being a nation of immigrants.