DNC Statement Commemorating “Cinco de Mayo” In a joint statement released today, DNC Chair Jaime Harrison and DNC Latino Caucus Chair Iris Martinez commemorated Cinco de Mayo, reflecting on its historical significance and emphasizing its contemporary relevance to the United States.
The statement began by recalling the historic Battle of Puebla, where a small Mexican force, vastly outnumbered by Napoleon’s French Foreign Legion, emerged victorious, defending the town of Puebla in central Mexico. Cinco de Mayo, observed annually on May 5th, marks this remarkable feat of resilience and defiance.
Celebrating the expansion of Cinco de Mayo festivities throughout the United States, Harrison and Martinez highlighted the vibrant contributions of the approximately 37.2 million Americans of Mexican origin, who have established thriving communities, businesses, and families across the nation.
The statement underscored the deep-rooted connection between Mexico and the United States, acknowledging the enduring presence of Mexican-Americans since the nation’s founding and their ongoing enrichment of American society and culture.
However, the statement also addressed the current political landscape, contrasting the divisive rhetoric of former President Donald Trump with the inclusive policies advocated by President Biden and Vice President Harris. The DNC leaders cited efforts such as the nearly 40 percent reduction in Latino child poverty and the stimulation of a small business boom, particularly among Latino entrepreneurs.
Against the backdrop of the upcoming election, Harrison and Martinez positioned Cinco de Mayo as a poignant reminder of the nation’s strength in diversity. They emphasized the importance of honoring and protecting the contributions of Mexican-American communities, rejecting narratives of exclusion and embracing the collective strength found in America’s multicultural fabric.
The statement concluded by reiterating the DNC’s commitment to championing the rights and well-being of all Americans, regardless of their background, and emphasizing that unity and diversity are intrinsic to the nation’s vitality.
As the country marks Cinco de Mayo, the message from the Democratic National Committee resonates as a call to celebrate diversity and embrace the shared history and values that bind the United States and Mexico together