President Barack Obama reiterated his commitment to taking executive action on immigration in his National Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation.
In keeping with previous years, Obama declared Monday, Sept. 15 through Wednesday, Oct. 15 National Hispanic Heritage Month, saying this month’s theme is “Hispanics: A legacy of history, a present of action, and a future of success,” stressing that his administration is “committed to supporting and fighting for policies that help Hispanics succeed.”
Obama pointed to the importance of immigration reform and — despite his recent decision to delay taking executive action on immigration reform until after the midterm elections — said he remains focused on unilateral fixes to the system.
“Reforming our immigration system remains crucial for our economic future,” he wrote in his Friday proclamation.
“That is why I continue to call on the Congress to enact comprehensive immigration reform, and why I am determined to address our broken immigration system through executive action in a way that is sustainable and effective, and within the confines of the law,” he continued. “America has always drawn its strength from the contributions of a diverse people.”
On Monday, other lawmakers joined in to recognize the beginning of the Hispanic Heritage Month.
“Around the country and especially in North Texas, Hispanic Americans have influenced our community through their strong commitment to family, hard work, and service,” Rep. Pete Sessions (R-TX) said in a statement Monday. “Their unwavering spirit exemplifies the values that encompass the American Dream and the principles upon which our great nation was founded. This month I join all Americans in celebrating the generations of Hispanic Americans whose vast experiences and accomplishments have positively influenced and enriched our communities.”
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a special time for the Latino community and the United States at large. From September 15th to October 15th we as a nation come together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and recognize the contributions the Latino community has made to the foundation of America,” Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairman Rubén Hinojosa (D-TX) said in a web video marking the beginning of the month.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health and Human Services kicked off the month with a Twitter chat about health and Obamacare.
“Celebrate #HHM by focusing on good health! Make sure friends & family know how to #GetCovered #Asegúrate! http://healthcare.gov #HHMSalud,” HHS Sec. Sylvia Burwell tweeted Monday.