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Recognizing the Naming of the Vermont Avenue Exit on State Highway Route 10 in Honor of the El Salvador Community Corridor

Floor Speech

Date: Sept. 24, 2019
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Immigration

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Mr. GOMEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the El Salvador Community Corridor (Corridor), the first designated Salvadoran community in the City of Los Angeles.

This vibrant Corridor, located in the Pico Union area in the southern region of downtown Los Angeles, honors the rich history, heritage and contributions of the Salvadoran American community. Murals throughout the Corridor depict the cultural pride, struggles and dreams of Salvadoran Americans.

Forty years of internal political turmoil forced individuals from the Republic of El Salvador to flee the country and seek peace and security in the United States. Today, it is estimated that nearly one million Salvadorans reside in Los Angeles, making Los Angeles home to the largest population of Salvadorans outside of El Salvador.

You cannot tell the story of Los Angeles without telling the stories of the Salvadoran American community--and of the community leaders, public servants, artists, teachers, neighbors, family members and friends who enrich Los Angeles in countless ways.

In 2012, the City of Los Angeles declared a section of Vermont Avenue as the El Salvador Community Corridor, a long over due recognition of the economic and cultural contributions of Salvadoran American individuals, families, and organizations. This designation--an important step for the community--created a special place for residents to celebrate their culture through businesses, retail, colorful art, food, clothing, and traditions.

This year, we celebrate the naming of the Vermont Avenue exit on State Highway 10 in honor of the Corridor. Another important step in honoring the integral role of the Salvadoran American community in the economy, culture and identity of Los Angeles.

I ask all Members to join me in commending the countless contributions of the Salvadoran American community to Los Angeles and recognizing integral economic and cultural role of the El Salvador Community Corridor.

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