Statement of Josefina G. Carbonell, Assistant Secretary for Aging National Hispanic Heritage Month – September 15 - October 15, 2007
Working in Partnership to Improve the Health of Hispanic Elders

For nearly two decades, our country has set aside September 15 to October 15 to celebrate the culture of U.S. residents who trace their origins to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish speaking nations of Central America, Latin America and the Caribbean. During Hispanic Heritage Month, President Bush encourages federal, state and local government, businesses, communities and individuals to commemorate the achievements of Hispanic citizens whose extraordinary contributions have had a lasting impact on our nation’s success and prosperity.

The U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA) is honored to join this annual celebration.  In 2006, there were 2.4 million Hispanic elders, 6.5 percent of the older population, in the United States.  By 2028 the Hispanic population aged 65 and older is projected to be the largest racial/ethnic minority in this age group.

The AoA is working in partnership several HHS agencies to empower seniors and their caregivers to take control of their lives, their health care and their futures. The key to successful empowerment is prevention, a top priority of HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt.

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Click here to view Hispanic Heritage Month 2007 Model Programs
Click here for an updated Statistical Profile of Hispanic Older Americans Aged 65+,

National Hispanic Heritage Month, 2007
A Proclamation by the President of the United States

Hispanic Americans have strengthened our country and contributed to the spirit of America. National Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor these contributions and celebrate the rich cultural traditions of our Hispanic-American community.

Hispanic Americans have helped establish America as a place of freedom and opportunity, and their contributions have illustrated what is best about our great Nation. Their hard work, love of country, and deep commitment to faith and family have shaped the character of our country and helped preserve the values we all cherish. By sharing their vibrant culture and heritage, Hispanic Americans have also enriched the American experience and helped define the unique fabric of our Nation.

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National Preparedness Month, 2007
A Proclamation by the President of the United States

National Preparedness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness and to encourage all Americans to better prepare their homes and communities for emergencies.
Protecting America's homeland and citizens is the shared responsibility of the entire Nation. Individuals can prepare themselves and their families for emergencies by taking simple steps such as organizing an emergency supply kit, making a personal preparedness plan, becoming informed about different threats, and getting involved in preparing their community. These activities create a culture of preparedness and can help save lives.

My Administration continues to improve our Nation's ability to prepare for emergencies. The Department of Homeland Security is working with other Federal, State, and local government organizations, as well as the private sector, to prevent, respond to, and recover from all types of emergencies. Together, Americans can significantly enhance the level of national preparedness to further safeguard our communities and secure our homeland.

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