Udall Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, Recognizes Hispanic-Serving Institutions

WASHINGTON - To mark the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, U.S. Senator Tom Udall today joined a bipartisan coalition of senators to introduce a resolution recognizing the culture, history and contributions of the Hispanic community in New Mexico and across the nation. Udall also cosponsored a resolution designating the week of Sept. 14 as National Hispanic-Serving Institution Week, in honor of New Mexico's 18 colleges and universities with high enrollments of Hispanic students.

Udall released the following statement:

"Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance to celebrate the immense contributions of Hispanic Americans to our nation, and no state has a Hispanic heritage as rich as New Mexico's. From Spanish descendants to Latin American immigrants building a better life for themselves and their families, Hispanic culture is diverse and deeply rooted in New Mexico's identity.

"Hispanic traditions and leaders in New Mexico have enriched our state since its founding. I'm honored to serve in the office once held by the late New Mexican Dennis Chávez, the first American-born Hispanic elected to the U.S. Senate. We're proud of our trailblazing diversity and strong values, both of which are exemplified by Hispanic families in every corner of the state. Our Hispanic community has shaped New Mexico into the vibrant place it is today, and will continue to be for generations to come.

"But there's more we can do to preserve our state's Hispanic culture and ensure all families have a fair shot at achieving the American dream. Expanding access to high-quality education is key — including empowering students at Hispanic-Serving Institutions with the resources they need to succeed. These institutions are developing our next generation of Hispanic leaders and I'm proud to recognize their achievements and continue to support their work."