Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement in honor of Cinco de Mayo:
"For 160 years, Cinco de Mayo has commemorated resilience and triumph in the face of overwhelming odds. Generations after outnumbered Mexican patriots fought to a hard-won victory over French invaders, their valor remains a point of national pride in Mexico. And in the United States, Cinco de Mayo continues to bring us together in celebration of our Mexican American community's rich history and heritage.
"From recently arrived immigrants to families whose roots predate our founding, the contributions of Mexican Americans are woven into our national story. As public servants, health care heroes, artists, business leaders and more, Mexican Americans have strengthened our democracy, enriched our culture and made America more American. As vile, xenophobic rhetoric continues to target Latino communities across the country, House Democrats remain committed to embracing America's beautiful diversity and building a more just future. That is why the House passed the American Dream and Promise Act -- reaffirming the truth that immigrants are the constant reinvigoration of our nation. And it is why we proudly voted to establish the National Museum of the American Latino.
"In remembering the heroes of the Battle of Puebla, let us channel their courage in the fights we face today. As we celebrate our Mexican American friends, neighbors and loved ones, we must recommit to realizing our nation's founding ideal: E pluribus unum -- out of many, one."