Congresswoman Barbara Lee Recognizes Cinco De Mayo

Oakland, CA – Congresswoman Barbara Lee released the following statement in honor of Cinco De Mayo:  

“On Cinco de Mayo, we recognize Mexico’s remarkable defense against foreign intervention, a feat marked by great courage and self-determination. It is an opportunity for our communities to remember the triumph by the small, outnumbered Mexican army over imperialist forces at the Battle of Puebla and celebrate the contributions that Mexican Americans have made to our nation for centuries. 

“In my home state of California, communities have been celebrating this day as far back as 1863, just one year after the historic Battle of Puebla. From artists and performers to labor and civil rights leaders like César Chávez and current East Bay resident Dolores Huerta, our national culture is richer and inspired by a history of fighting injustice. 

“On this day and every day, let us recommit to fighting against unjust laws and practices and recognize that our nation is strengthened by diversity and the opportunity for every family arriving in our country to build a better life. I was proud to work to pass the American Dream and Promise Act, which reaffirms our commitment to justice and human rights for all, and I will continue fighting on behalf of marginalized immigrant communities in California and across the country.”