____________________________________

HONORABLE CHARLES B. RANGEL
OF NEW YORK
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2007

RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Mr. RANGEL: Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Caribbean American Heritage Month. The imprint of Caribbean-Americans on the foundation of the United States is indispensable. This June, we Americans have the opportunity to celebrate the history, accomplishments, culture and global influence of people of Caribbean descent past and present.

Caribbean-Americans have significantly contributed to the ethnic diversity that strengthens and enhances our stature in the international community. From the platform of St. Mark's Church in New York City to the halls of Congress, Caribbean-Americans such as Marcus Garvey and Congresswoman Barbara Lee have effected the civil rights and federal legislation that serve as building blocks in American history.

Even in times of war, Caribbean-Americans support our efforts at home and abroad by serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, thousands of Caribbean-Americans are fighting to achieve stability in Iraq.

In a wide variety of fields, people of Caribbean descent have transformed the Nation we live in today. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of H. Con. Res. 148, recognizing the significance of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month.