Udall, Cornyn Observe Cultural, Historical Significance of Cinco de Mayo

Press Release

Senators Mark Udall (D-Colo.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) marked Cinco de Mayo today, noting not only Mexico's courageous defeat of French forces during the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, but also the cultural contributions of Mexican-Americans have made to the United States.

"When Mexican fighters defeated French forces from staking a claim to the Americas on May 5, 1862, our nation was preoccupied by its own Civil War. Had Mexico not claimed victory in this decisive battle, the history of our nation -- not to mention the entire continent -- could have been drastically altered," Udall said. "Cinco de Mayo is an important historical and cultural reminder for all Americans that the pursuit of freedom and independence is a worthy endeavor to embrace and celebrate."

"On Cinco de Mayo we salute the heroes of Mexico's quest for freedom and independence--ideals that are central to the identities of both of our nations -- and recognize the many contributions of Mexican-Americans and all Hispanics to the United States," Cornyn said. "Today we also pay tribute to generations of Hispanic veterans, educators, and other trailblazers who have sacrificed to help make America the strong nation it is today. It is with pride and patriotism that we join our neighbors in Mexico and Mexican-Americans across Texas in celebrating freedom on Cinco de Mayo."

Last week, Udall and Cornyn introduced and passed a bipartisan resolution commemorating Cinco de Mayo.

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