Transcripts For CSPAN2 Hearing On National American Latino M

This subcommittee hearing last about an hour and 20 minutes. Good morning. The subcommittee on National Parks force and public life will now come to order. The subcommittees meeting today to testimony on h. R. 2420 the nationales museum of the americn latino act. And a Committee Rule, any oral Opening Statements at hearings are limited to the chair and the ranking minority member. Therefore ask unanimous consent that all of the members Opening Statements be made part of the hearing record if their civic to the clerk by 5 p. M. Today. During no objection, so ordered. In addition due to the broad interest in todays hearing i would like to askn unanimous consent that allo interested members be allowed to join us and participate on the dais. Before we get started i would like to take a point of personal privilege and have a moment of silence for our friend, our colleague, defender of justice and equality and humanity, mr. Elijahel cummings. Thank you all so much. Thank you for attending the subcommittee on National Parks public lands. Legislators on the National Museum of the american latino act, a proposal i am proud to cosponsor along with over 200 of my colleagues. Like to extend my gratitude to mr. Hirano, the bill sponsor those other members of congress joining us today to testify on the f of this important legislation. I would also to welcome our witnesses, many of whom have traveled a long way to speak to the personal and National Significance of this proposal. For over 500 years latinos have played an h Important Role in shaping the history, culture, and art of this nation pick in my home state of new mexico the influences of hispanic and latino culture can be found in everything from our food and festivals to our arts and architecture. Althoughgh latinos represent the Largest Ethnic Group in the nation, there are innumerable contributions to American Culture and history areis often ignored by our history books. And, unfortunately, many stories of our o countrys rich and diverse latino heritage remain untold or forgotten over time. H. R. 2420 seek to recognize and honor the countless contributions of latinos to our nations history and culture by establishing the National Museum of the american latino act ensuring that the american latino story is preserved and shared. This presents us with an important opportunity to create a more inclusive and representative story of america by eliminating the diverse expenses illuminating the diverse expenses a Latino Americans that have been overlooked for far too long. It is especially fitting that we consider this proposal today as this tuesday marks the end of National Hispanic heritage month, time when we celebrate our countrys out hispanic heritage and pay tribute to the numerous achievements of hispanic americans. From the establishment of the First Permanent settlement in the United States in 1565, to the millions of latinos who have served our nation, the experiences of akita americans are woven into every aspect of american society. It is time that our National Institutions elevate the historically marginalized stories of hispanic and Latino Americans, and present a more inclusive and complete image of American History and society. Especially considering the increase in hateful rhetoric targeting the Latino Community in recentt years. As weve seen with the National Museum of african American History and culture, and the National Museum of the American Indian, the establishment of a Museum Dedicated to the experiences of the american latino will provide americans and visitors from acrosse the world with a deeper and richer understanding of the Diverse Voices that shape this nation. I would like to thank mr. Serrano again for champing this important legislation as well as the witnesses for being here today. I look for to hearing your testimony, and i now recognize Ranking Member young for his opening statement. Thank you, madam chair. Ive written statement i will submit for the record but i especially like to thank mr. Serrano for sponsoring this bill. Im a cosponsor. Primarily because youre an honorary alaskan. Ho he served in Fort Wainwright i believe it was over two years in the coldest time and he came back safely, and im compliment him on a that and youre doing a great job in this arena, so thank you. With t that, madam chair, i yied back. Thank you. Thank you, mr. Young. Now would id like to turn to r first panel and look in the members of congress who wish to testify on the bills that sponsor under Committee Rules oral statement oron limited to five minutes but you may submit a longer statement for the record if you choose. The lights in front of you will turn yellow when theres one minute left and read when time has expired. The chair recognizes the gentleman from new york mr. Serrano. [inaudible] thank you so much for this opportunity, chairwoman, Ranking Member young, members of the subcommittee. This is or fought for this project. Thanks for the opportunity to testify on behalf of h. R. 2420, the National Museum of the american latino. And thank you, chairman young, for remind me of my days in alaska. Its a great place to be if youre puerto rican. [laughing] the effort to establish allatoona museum started 25 years ago when the smithsonian release willful neglect in reported acknowledging a lack of latino inclusion. Im a significant step was the creation of the Latino Center in 1997. Its work has led to many exciting new exhibits and opportunities for latino curators and researchers. However, we could not stop there. In 2003 former Congress Member Xavier Becerra of california and ms. Ross lightman afloat and was the first bill in congress to begin establishment of allatoona museum in 2008 president bush signed legislation including their language or warming a commission to study its creation. Creation. In 2011 the commissions final report to congress and president obama found that a Latino Museum was necessary and feasible. It m laid out a roadmap to help get us there. Its been over eight years since its release. Hi last year the ucla latino policy and Politics Initiative released a report measuring the smithsonian progress and found only three of its ten recommendation from the original report have been addressed. That is why passage of h. R. 2420 is critical. H. R. 2421 finally authorize a process to create allatoona museum by establishing a board of trustees who will provide recommendations to the smithsonian board of regents on a design, placement, construction and establishment of a future museum. It will include a diverse set of voices to ensure all parts of thee Latino Community are represented. H. R. 2420 2420 authorizes the smithsonian to undertake a campaign to raise half of the funds necessary to pay for this ambitious endeavor from private sources, but also authorizing federalng appropriations for the rest. As it is historically done for other museums. H. R. 2420 establishes educational Grant Programs to help bolster the work of other Latino Museums across the country and provide Scholarship Opportunities for students studying in the field of Latino History, arts and culture to help train pipeline of talent to keep this history alive well into the future. Passage of this bill will show that representation and inclusion matter. Latinos the store to make up almost onefifth of our population. Where the largest and secondfastest growing ethnic group. We have served in every american war and death made significant contributions in the world of sports, music, the arts, sciences and beyond. From the American Revolution to the fight for civil rights, latinos have been on the front lines of history. These stories and heroes are often overlooked, but to deny or telling it is to deny a very important part of what made this country what it is today, this great nation that we have. In 2021 the latino gallery will open at the American History museum. We thank eduardo diaz and his leadership for it. It is a step come hundreds of years of history, art and culture cannote be contained in 4500 ft. 2. These stories is of a dedicate space of their own on americas front yard to tell the fourth story theam full story. Ill also want to acknowledge and thank my colleagues and republican colleague congressman will hurdan of texas who is here today. His leadership has led to an historic level of republican support this year. At 219 cosponsors and county, this is i a truly bipartisan effort. Thank you again and especially to chairman grijalva for being one of the Latino Museum as champs. Where the momentum to get it done in the 116th. Now wish you know, i have a few seconds left year, next you will be my last year in public office. 30 in congress, 46 is enough. When i was elected, nixon was president , so its been a long time. But if you want to give me a going away present that i will cherish forever [laughing] give me a souza, when i think of my father in the military coming from a territory, when he think of all the mexicanamericans who have given so much to this country throughout our wars, this democracy exists because latinos played a major role in keeping itol alive. Gave of themselves and their blood. Thank you so much. Thank you so much, mr. Serrano, for that moving testimony. Were so happy you are here. The chair recognizes the gentleman from texas, mr. Castr castro. Thank you, chairwoman hollon, to Ranking Member young, and to chairman grijalva. Think ill just putting on the sharing today and most especially thank you to my colleague congressman serrano for all these wonderful work over the years in helping bring this forward. Creating a standalone National Museum of the american latino will allow us to celebrate the immeasurable contributions latinos have made to American History and share these accomplishments with the visitors froms across the u. S. And around the world. This museum has been in the works for quite a long time. In 1994 the Smithsonian Institution task force on of aw issues published a report recommending thein creation of a museum of latino experience, and including latinos at every level of leadership while over 20 years have gone by since the threat conditions were made, id ucla report earlier this year found the institution had largely failed to meet the recommendations as wasas mentioned. Since 1994 only four four hisps answered in the institution leadership. Despite Congress Efforts for the last 15 years we still do not have a Latino Museum. Latinos make up almost 20 of the population in the United States, nearly 60 million across all 50 states and territories, including 11 million in my home state of texas. Latinos had to find that gets of the american music, art, sports and culture. Latinos have served our country in uniform across all branches of the military. Latinos led organizers and activists of foughtou for worke rights in fair labor practices. Latinos have helpedd build americas thriving economy as innovators and entrepreneurs. But our stories, our experiences and her contributions have often been erased and left out of the writings of american and state histories. This erasure is silencing and invalidates the importance of our communities. Mp we can change that by establishing a National Museum of the american latino. In the last 20 years at the smithsonian has taken steps to increase representation of diversity. On the National Mall our brothers and sisters of native american and africanamerican communities thankfully have Smithsonian Museums marking their histories, their suffering and the contributions to our nation. These musings are examples of success and demonstrate that simple act of representation here in washington can bring pride to millions of americans of color. Now its time for the Latino Community to have the same honor and recognition in the heart of our nations capital. Unfortunately we are living at a time when many hispanic families are living inow the shadows andn fear because of the at the immigrant environment thats also affected u. S. Citizens of latino heritage. Now more than ever is critical we tell thehe hispanic stories d celebrate hispanic culture. My family like so many is a family of immigrants and everything i have today is because of the sacrifices of my grandmother who came to texas as a young orphan from mexico. Latinos are a community with a rich history of the United States and we stand strong and patriotic, and we stand up for this country. Latinos contribute everyday to our nations economy, culture and arts, and our community are instrumental to our nations history and character. And as congressman serrano said, i would ask for the committee and the congress support on his legislation. I yield back. Thank you so much, mr. Castro. I would like to now yield to chairman of the committee, mr. Grijalva. Thank you, madam c chair. I just briefly say thank you for the opportunity to thank my colleagues, mr. Castro, mr. Serrano, a dear friend, someone who i will miss for his wifes counsel and his leadership wise counsel. He still makes me feel moonshot joe which makes you feel very good of time does that buddy do i take note that and extend to him my deep appreciation in terms of legacies the that woue a very nice gift. Thank you. Thank you mr. Chairman. I thank the members of congress for the valuable testimony. I not invite panel two to take their places at the witness table. Thank you so much for being here. Thank you. I invite panel two to take their places at the witness table. As with the first panel, oral statements are limited to five minutes but your entire statement will be part of the hearing record. The lights in front of you will turn yellow when theres one minute left and read when time has expired. After the witnesses have testified, members will be given the opportunity to ask questions. The chair recognizes mr. Eduardo diaz, director of the t smithsonian Latino Center, victor yesterday is, you have five minutes. Thank you very much. Appreciate the opportunity. Thank you so much for the opportunity to testify today. Im the director of the smithsonian Latino Center since 2008. The city was greater in 1997 to promote latino presence within the smithsonian. The center works with the institutions Museum Research center, record label and exhibitions in sharing thehe contribution off latino communiy are explored, presented come celebrated and preserved. Yet the smithsonian is to fully served 40 of global audiences will have to be more inclusive, more accessible and more diverse. Diverse. Critical part of this work is to include traditionally underrepresented histories to appreciate the opportunity to testifyy before you on h. R. 2420 and based on the success of the National Museum of American Indian at a National African American History and culture we know the public is best served when you see American History, art, culture and Scientific Achievement through different lenses. It congress deems it in the Public Interest to create a Latino Museum, the smithsonian would build a Museum Worthy of national and international recognition. I should add any additions to the smithsonian family was taken into considerationat existing priorities. The museum would need federal funds for both its creation a longterm operation. In the meantime we will continue to work diligently to tell it broader and more complete narrative with the resources already at our disposal with a commitment to seek Additional Resources to expand the stores. For the look of a Latino Center where expensing unprecedented increases in the number of research projects, exhibitions, collection, all the programs and Digital Content about the contributions of the Latino Community. Currently preparing to unveil the first ever Latino Museum on the National Parks<\/a> force and public life will now come to order. The subcommittees meeting today to testimony on h. R. 2420 the nationales museum of the americn latino act. And a Committee Rule<\/a>, any oral Opening Statements<\/a> at hearings are limited to the chair and the ranking minority member. Therefore ask unanimous consent that all of the members Opening Statements<\/a> be made part of the hearing record if their civic to the clerk by 5 p. M. Today. During no objection, so ordered. In addition due to the broad interest in todays hearing i would like to askn unanimous consent that allo interested members be allowed to join us and participate on the dais. Before we get started i would like to take a point of personal privilege and have a moment of silence for our friend, our colleague, defender of justice and equality and humanity, mr. Elijahel cummings. Thank you all so much. Thank you for attending the subcommittee on National Parks<\/a> public lands. Legislators on the National Museum<\/a> of the american latino act, a proposal i am proud to cosponsor along with over 200 of my colleagues. Like to extend my gratitude to mr. Hirano, the bill sponsor those other members of congress joining us today to testify on the f of this important legislation. I would also to welcome our witnesses, many of whom have traveled a long way to speak to the personal and National Significance<\/a> of this proposal. For over 500 years latinos have played an h Important Role<\/a> in shaping the history, culture, and art of this nation pick in my home state of new mexico the influences of hispanic and latino culture can be found in everything from our food and festivals to our arts and architecture. Althoughgh latinos represent the Largest Ethnic Group<\/a> in the nation, there are innumerable contributions to American Culture<\/a> and history areis often ignored by our history books. And, unfortunately, many stories of our o countrys rich and diverse latino heritage remain untold or forgotten over time. H. R. 2420 seek to recognize and honor the countless contributions of latinos to our nations history and culture by establishing the National Museum<\/a> of the american latino act ensuring that the american latino story is preserved and shared. This presents us with an important opportunity to create a more inclusive and representative story of america by eliminating the diverse expenses illuminating the diverse expenses a Latino American<\/a>s that have been overlooked for far too long. It is especially fitting that we consider this proposal today as this tuesday marks the end of National Hispanic<\/a> heritage month, time when we celebrate our countrys out hispanic heritage and pay tribute to the numerous achievements of hispanic americans. From the establishment of the First Permanent<\/a> settlement in the United States<\/a> in 1565, to the millions of latinos who have served our nation, the experiences of akita americans are woven into every aspect of american society. It is time that our National Institutions<\/a> elevate the historically marginalized stories of hispanic and Latino American<\/a>s, and present a more inclusive and complete image of American History<\/a> and society. Especially considering the increase in hateful rhetoric targeting the Latino Community<\/a> in recentt years. As weve seen with the National Museum<\/a> of african American History<\/a> and culture, and the National Museum<\/a> of the American Indian<\/a>, the establishment of a Museum Dedicated<\/a> to the experiences of the american latino will provide americans and visitors from acrosse the world with a deeper and richer understanding of the Diverse Voices<\/a> that shape this nation. I would like to thank mr. Serrano again for champing this important legislation as well as the witnesses for being here today. I look for to hearing your testimony, and i now recognize Ranking Member<\/a> young for his opening statement. Thank you, madam chair. Ive written statement i will submit for the record but i especially like to thank mr. Serrano for sponsoring this bill. Im a cosponsor. Primarily because youre an honorary alaskan. Ho he served in Fort Wainwright<\/a> i believe it was over two years in the coldest time and he came back safely, and im compliment him on a that and youre doing a great job in this arena, so thank you. With t that, madam chair, i yied back. Thank you. Thank you, mr. Young. Now would id like to turn to r first panel and look in the members of congress who wish to testify on the bills that sponsor under Committee Rules<\/a> oral statement oron limited to five minutes but you may submit a longer statement for the record if you choose. The lights in front of you will turn yellow when theres one minute left and read when time has expired. The chair recognizes the gentleman from new york mr. Serrano. [inaudible] thank you so much for this opportunity, chairwoman, Ranking Member<\/a> young, members of the subcommittee. This is or fought for this project. Thanks for the opportunity to testify on behalf of h. R. 2420, the National Museum<\/a> of the american latino. And thank you, chairman young, for remind me of my days in alaska. Its a great place to be if youre puerto rican. [laughing] the effort to establish allatoona museum started 25 years ago when the smithsonian release willful neglect in reported acknowledging a lack of latino inclusion. Im a significant step was the creation of the Latino Center<\/a> in 1997. Its work has led to many exciting new exhibits and opportunities for latino curators and researchers. However, we could not stop there. In 2003 former Congress Member<\/a> Xavier Becerra<\/a> of california and ms. Ross lightman afloat and was the first bill in congress to begin establishment of allatoona museum in 2008 president bush signed legislation including their language or warming a commission to study its creation. Creation. In 2011 the commissions final report to congress and president obama found that a Latino Museum<\/a> was necessary and feasible. It m laid out a roadmap to help get us there. Its been over eight years since its release. Hi last year the ucla latino policy and Politics Initiative<\/a> released a report measuring the smithsonian progress and found only three of its ten recommendation from the original report have been addressed. That is why passage of h. R. 2420 is critical. H. R. 2421 finally authorize a process to create allatoona museum by establishing a board of trustees who will provide recommendations to the smithsonian board of regents on a design, placement, construction and establishment of a future museum. It will include a diverse set of voices to ensure all parts of thee Latino Community<\/a> are represented. H. R. 2420 2420 authorizes the smithsonian to undertake a campaign to raise half of the funds necessary to pay for this ambitious endeavor from private sources, but also authorizing federalng appropriations for the rest. As it is historically done for other museums. H. R. 2420 establishes educational Grant Programs<\/a> to help bolster the work of other Latino Museum<\/a>s across the country and provide Scholarship Opportunities<\/a> for students studying in the field of Latino History<\/a>, arts and culture to help train pipeline of talent to keep this history alive well into the future. Passage of this bill will show that representation and inclusion matter. Latinos the store to make up almost onefifth of our population. Where the largest and secondfastest growing ethnic group. We have served in every american war and death made significant contributions in the world of sports, music, the arts, sciences and beyond. From the American Revolution<\/a> to the fight for civil rights, latinos have been on the front lines of history. These stories and heroes are often overlooked, but to deny or telling it is to deny a very important part of what made this country what it is today, this great nation that we have. In 2021 the latino gallery will open at the American History<\/a> museum. We thank eduardo diaz and his leadership for it. It is a step come hundreds of years of history, art and culture cannote be contained in 4500 ft. 2. These stories is of a dedicate space of their own on americas front yard to tell the fourth story theam full story. Ill also want to acknowledge and thank my colleagues and republican colleague congressman will hurdan of texas who is here today. His leadership has led to an historic level of republican support this year. At 219 cosponsors and county, this is i a truly bipartisan effort. Thank you again and especially to chairman grijalva for being one of the Latino Museum<\/a> as champs. Where the momentum to get it done in the 116th. Now wish you know, i have a few seconds left year, next you will be my last year in public office. 30 in congress, 46 is enough. When i was elected, nixon was president , so its been a long time. But if you want to give me a going away present that i will cherish forever [laughing] give me a souza, when i think of my father in the military coming from a territory, when he think of all the mexicanamericans who have given so much to this country throughout our wars, this democracy exists because latinos played a major role in keeping itol alive. Gave of themselves and their blood. Thank you so much. Thank you so much, mr. Serrano, for that moving testimony. Were so happy you are here. The chair recognizes the gentleman from texas, mr. Castr castro. Thank you, chairwoman hollon, to Ranking Member<\/a> young, and to chairman grijalva. Think ill just putting on the sharing today and most especially thank you to my colleague congressman serrano for all these wonderful work over the years in helping bring this forward. Creating a standalone National Museum<\/a> of the american latino will allow us to celebrate the immeasurable contributions latinos have made to American History<\/a> and share these accomplishments with the visitors froms across the u. S. And around the world. This museum has been in the works for quite a long time. In 1994 the Smithsonian Institution<\/a> task force on of aw issues published a report recommending thein creation of a museum of latino experience, and including latinos at every level of leadership while over 20 years have gone by since the threat conditions were made, id ucla report earlier this year found the institution had largely failed to meet the recommendations as wasas mentioned. Since 1994 only four four hisps answered in the institution leadership. Despite Congress Efforts<\/a> for the last 15 years we still do not have a Latino Museum<\/a>. Latinos make up almost 20 of the population in the United States<\/a>, nearly 60 million across all 50 states and territories, including 11 million in my home state of texas. Latinos had to find that gets of the american music, art, sports and culture. Latinos have served our country in uniform across all branches of the military. Latinos led organizers and activists of foughtou for worke rights in fair labor practices. Latinos have helpedd build americas thriving economy as innovators and entrepreneurs. But our stories, our experiences and her contributions have often been erased and left out of the writings of american and state histories. This erasure is silencing and invalidates the importance of our communities. Mp we can change that by establishing a National Museum<\/a> of the american latino. In the last 20 years at the smithsonian has taken steps to increase representation of diversity. On the National Mall<\/a> our brothers and sisters of native american and africanamerican communities thankfully have Smithsonian Museum<\/a>s marking their histories, their suffering and the contributions to our nation. These musings are examples of success and demonstrate that simple act of representation here in washington can bring pride to millions of americans of color. Now its time for the Latino Community<\/a> to have the same honor and recognition in the heart of our nations capital. Unfortunately we are living at a time when many hispanic families are living inow the shadows andn fear because of the at the immigrant environment thats also affected u. S. Citizens of latino heritage. Now more than ever is critical we tell thehe hispanic stories d celebrate hispanic culture. My family like so many is a family of immigrants and everything i have today is because of the sacrifices of my grandmother who came to texas as a young orphan from mexico. Latinos are a community with a rich history of the United States<\/a> and we stand strong and patriotic, and we stand up for this country. Latinos contribute everyday to our nations economy, culture and arts, and our community are instrumental to our nations history and character. And as congressman serrano said, i would ask for the committee and the congress support on his legislation. I yield back. Thank you so much, mr. Castro. I would like to now yield to chairman of the committee, mr. Grijalva. Thank you, madam c chair. I just briefly say thank you for the opportunity to thank my colleagues, mr. Castro, mr. Serrano, a dear friend, someone who i will miss for his wifes counsel and his leadership wise counsel. He still makes me feel moonshot joe which makes you feel very good of time does that buddy do i take note that and extend to him my deep appreciation in terms of legacies the that woue a very nice gift. Thank you. Thank you mr. Chairman. I thank the members of congress for the valuable testimony. I not invite panel two to take their places at the witness table. Thank you so much for being here. Thank you. I invite panel two to take their places at the witness table. As with the first panel, oral statements are limited to five minutes but your entire statement will be part of the hearing record. The lights in front of you will turn yellow when theres one minute left and read when time has expired. After the witnesses have testified, members will be given the opportunity to ask questions. The chair recognizes mr. Eduardo diaz, director of the t smithsonian Latino Center<\/a>, victor yesterday is, you have five minutes. Thank you very much. Appreciate the opportunity. Thank you so much for the opportunity to testify today. Im the director of the smithsonian Latino Center<\/a> since 2008. The city was greater in 1997 to promote latino presence within the smithsonian. The center works with the institutions Museum Research<\/a> center, record label and exhibitions in sharing thehe contribution off latino communiy are explored, presented come celebrated and preserved. Yet the smithsonian is to fully served 40 of global audiences will have to be more inclusive, more accessible and more diverse. Diverse. Critical part of this work is to include traditionally underrepresented histories to appreciate the opportunity to testifyy before you on h. R. 2420 and based on the success of the National Museum<\/a> of American Indian<\/a> at a National African<\/a> American History<\/a> and culture we know the public is best served when you see American History<\/a>, art, culture and Scientific Achievement<\/a> through different lenses. It congress deems it in the Public Interest<\/a> to create a Latino Museum<\/a>, the smithsonian would build a Museum Worthy<\/a> of national and international recognition. I should add any additions to the smithsonian family was taken into considerationat existing priorities. The museum would need federal funds for both its creation a longterm operation. In the meantime we will continue to work diligently to tell it broader and more complete narrative with the resources already at our disposal with a commitment to seek Additional Resources<\/a> to expand the stores. For the look of a Latino Center<\/a> where expensing unprecedented increases in the number of research projects, exhibitions, collection, all the programs and Digital Content<\/a> about the contributions of the Latino Community<\/a>. Currently preparing to unveil the first ever Latino Museum<\/a> on the National Mall<\/a>, the gallery which will open in a in a natil museum of American History<\/a> in the fall of 2021. This 45 or squarefoot gallery will present exhibitions to tell if the the complexity of the latino experience and be available to the 4 million annual visitors. The gala were present stories of discovery to my country, migration, innovation, entrepreneurship and success to millions of diverse audiences and have a couple of slides here to show this is the entrance of the gallery, the next light is what they call the forum. The photo of the gallery. Next light please is, well, the cases and the history and the fourth slide, the last one, is dedicated educational space in the back ofat the gallery. These are renderings at 10 . Next week we will be at 35 and april will be at 65 so we are moving closer those of the percentages takes to get to the 99 of the 100 of the design. You see a little different in the final product but a one to show the student to give you an idea. Through the latino paule established federal the funds in 1995. The center makes possible a diverse array of research, exhibition, of the programs, professional development opportunities. In fy 20 nicking the pool supported 28 projects across 24 Smithsonian Museum<\/a>s and other offices. In total to the pool we supported over 27 million worth of numerous regional projects and we think congress for its support of these programs. In 2010 the smithsonian established the initiative which is taken with your representation to a whole new level. We 12 since 2010 and last year we won a prestigious award for work from the American Alliance<\/a> of museums. In 1994 we established the Latino Museum<\/a> studies program which brings graduate Students Experience<\/a> in practice. 13 now work at the smithsonian. Members of this committee may i ask how do our exhibition expense can public and Educational Program<\/a> experience growing collections in the gallery plus the pathway programs prepare the smithsonian for theit possibility of a new Latino Museum<\/a> . And expanding latino presence weve created a base of content expertise, collections and public and educational expertise, and havee established programs that prepare future latino use and professionals, elements that will be needed to build and staff a new museum. The Latino Center<\/a> has been dedicated to ongoing efforts to increase the visibility of latino populations and a rich and culture diverse stories at the smithsonian. Well continue to build collections, hire curators, exhibitions, present public and Educational Program<\/a>s, support musical recordings, engage in scholarly research, dialogue, collaborate and take the necessary steps to ensure that the latino stories presented as an integral part of the american story. Thank you very much for supporting this ongoing work and for giving me the opportunity to testify before you today. Im happy to answer any questions that you may have. Thank you so a much, mr. Dia. The chair recognizes mr. Stephen pitti, professor of history and american studies at yale university. You have five minutes. Good morning and thank you for having me. Im stephen pitti, professores f history and the director of the center for the study of race at yale. Im also passman of the National Parks<\/a> Service Advisory<\/a> board and past chair of the national stork Landmark Committee<\/a> for thehe National Park<\/a> service. I ministry of latino committees in the 19th and 20th century and had the opportunity to pass to work closely with the curators of the smithsonian whom i admire deeply where i taught courses on how the smithsonian presents American History<\/a> to the public. Im here to underscore lacuna history is American History<\/a> and any serious attempt to document and interpret this history over theor past 500 years requires serious engagement with latino experiences. This claim is hardly controversial among scholars and academics who teach, research or write history for a living. The central importance for latinos have played an American History<\/a> have been recognized for decades but Academics Association<\/a> can public is a book centers, museum professionals, college and University History<\/a> departments, k12 students and educators, and many others. We have known we cannot understand important patterns in American History<\/a> or how the United States<\/a> fits into Broader Development<\/a> in the world in hemisphere, or in north america without recognizing the place of people of latin american descent in what is today the United States<\/a>. But focus on latinos is, in fact, critical for understanding histories of colonization, slavery and antislavery, democratic struggles, economicat growth and the struggles of working people, foreign policy, religious dynamics in city life, and much, much more. Scholars have explored these themes of many others in great detail over thelo past century. In 2013 helped to write and assemble the american latinos in the making of the United States<\/a> dean study for the National Parks<\/a> service a collection of 16 original essays that guides federal preservation and interpretation efforts. We remain proud of that study as it encapsulation of the range of perspective and the depthca of scholarship about latinos in the United States<\/a> and as a resource for public historians and for others interested inn learning more aboutut a wide range of topics including the history of wars and revolutions, the american military, asus and commerce in the United States<\/a>, religion and spirituality, science and medicine, education, and law and government. We knewrn in 2013 that americans from coast to coast were eager to understand these topics and others but, unfortunately, we also know01 in 2019 that too may people in this country remain uninformed about the longstanding historical importance of latinos. Or ignorance about the past threatens to be divisive or even destructive in the present. We know of the recent which violent extremists inn the unitd states have misrepresented latinos as a new cultural threat, how wellmeaning journalists and educators have mischaracterize puerto ricos eloquent economic relationship to washington, d. C. , how latinos have been written out of historical accounts of popular music and hollywood films. Or. C how new it is about the revolution or the u. S. Civil war, the Labor Movement<\/a> or antiregions of the United States<\/a> continued to be told at the latinos have played no historical role. We need National Leadership<\/a> that can educate the public about these topics and others i can convene scholars and a large audiences, and that can guide ongoing conversations about Latino History<\/a> ground in scholarship and research. In these efforts will benefit from the rich andc varied histories that have beenn published on these topics and others for decades. Ff from the expertise of hundreds of researchers, writers, archivist, curators and other professionals who have deep historical fluency in these areas. And those efforts will benefit frome involvement of other americans who still have Untold Stories<\/a> and family treasures to share. Documentse and memories that capture history of latinos arriving in the United States<\/a>, creating an animating communities across many generations, raising children and building institutions and so forth. In the mid19th century, James Smithson<\/a> provided initial resources to create the Smithsonian Institution<\/a> that would serve as quote, and establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge. While the smithsonian has done incredible work since that time its focused or too little attention to date on advancing research and public understanding of latinos in the United States<\/a>. If 21st 21st century americanse going to be fully informed about u. S. History, and if were going to face our societies most pressing challenges today, we needd a new National Museum<\/a> dedicated to foreground and molecular past as t central central to American History<\/a>. Thank you. Thank you so much. The chair nowo recognizes president of the Dolores Huerta<\/a> foundation, mentor to entire generations and my friend, Dolores Huerta<\/a>. Thank you, madam chair. Imo so happy to be here and wat to thank you all for having this hearing. Its long overdue. As has been said by the previous testimonies, we know that this is an imperative, that we need to this lacuna museum as soon as possible, especially as it is also some been said before, volvo turbotax data been relayed against our Latino Community<\/a> and especially our latino children the ones who suffer when this happens. If we can have lacuna museum maybe we can put on display what the contributions are of latinos in this country. A lot of people do not know that during world war ii there were more latinos that actually received the congressional medal of honor than any other ethnic group in the United States<\/a> of america. People do not know this. These are the things people have to know. I had an interesting confrontation i might say with a homeless person the other day. I wasay trying to give this womn some food because she was homeless and had some food i was carrying around when i tried to give her the food she yelled at me and she said, you went back, get away from me. I dont want to take anything from you. When she said that, of course, you know, as latinos will skip these anyway, but it kind of sad when you think about that somebody on the street which is safe okay, i am a wet back. My greatgrandfather served in the civil war as part of the union army. My father and my brothers were in world war ii and also in the korean war. My father was also an is some movement in the state of new mexico. I have an uncle who is in a cemetery in new mexico because he was killed in a mine explosion. These are the things that people do not know. A third of the United States<\/a> with mexico, so when we tell us as they often do, go back where you came from, we have to say, we are where we came from, okay . We are where we came from and this is something that Everybody Needs<\/a> to know and i think its in our educational system, we can stop the hatred and stop the discrimination on our latino communities. We know that latinos in addition to the farm work we know, they developed much of the land of the United States<\/a> of america. Building the railroads and so much of the labors that built this country were latinos and thats not recognized or even acknowledge. In addition to of course the historical figures that we also have that came out of our community, and so, at this point in time where were at in the history in our country, we need to celebrate the diversity of our country and need to recognize and acknowledge and respect and demonstrate in a Latino Museum<\/a> what the contributions have been of our Latino Community<\/a> to the United States<\/a>. We are not outsiders. We have always been here from the very beginning and that needs to be acknowledged in a very, very visible way. And we its time for us to make this happen. We have a very vast history in the United States<\/a> of america and people need to know what that history is. We cannot wait any longer. Its time. The time is now. Thank you. Thank you very much. And one more thing. I just want to thank the smithsonian for the initiative, privileged to be the first latino, latina, to have a portrait exhibit in the smithsonian and that exhibit is now travelling throughout the United States<\/a> of america and i think to other countries. So i do want to thank the smithsonian for what theyre doing on the latino initiative, but we know that they have been underfunded to be able to do this, but i think we all need to come together and say, okay, lets build that museum. Weve been talking about it for what, 20 years, i think, the first meeting i went to and so its long overdue. Thank you, thank you so much miss huerta. And the chairman recognizes the former u. S. Ambassador to el salvador and former acting assistant secretary of state. Thank you very much, chairwoman haaland and Ranking Member<\/a> young. Its a privilege to appear perfect you today, a public servant, a puerto rican and as an american. I thank you for the invitation and i want to thank my friends in this panel, especially eduardo who has been a Guiding Light<\/a> in my light and who always, when things were very dark, i always know that. And the professor steven, i it from the bottom of my heart. Muchas gracias, thank you. And my dear friend raul, i have an amazing team of latino and latina advocates and we gathered from the smithsonian, grevious absence of the displays, throughout the 500 years of the relationshipment and the u. S. And latinos, the report was designed to benefit all the people of the u. S. The recommendations were developed not to address the concerns of one single population group, but to help the smithsonian to become truly representative and inclusive of all the Diverse People<\/a> and population groups of this nation, end quote. That remains true to this day for i will add that we were also driven by the singular idea that if these stories could be shared across our National Mall<\/a> they could start to inspire each coming generation of latino youth to reach the greatness of their innate potential. Among the ten recommendations that we presented to the smithsonian and congress, it was clear that inclusion of u. S. Latino into existing museums was critical and also clear there were hundreds of years of history that would require a separate stand alone museum. In fact, what our fourth recommendation read the smithsonian should begin immediately to do the groundwork needed to assure establishment of one or more museums portraying the historical culture of and artistic achievement of u. S. Hispanics. It should come as no surprise as we investigate the failings of the smithsonian and possible remediation, we heard from many within the smithsonian that bugetary constraints would make many of our recommendations unlikely. 25 years later, as we push forward on the fulfillment of our recommendation, we unfortunately are hearing the same concerns. Yes, we see that great progress has been made notwithstanding the bugetary fears we were warned about over two decades ago. The latino thrives nearing its 22nd anniversary and the opening of the Molino Family<\/a> latino gallery is on the horizon and promises to house so many exhibits that begin to dive into our unexplored history. I would argue these are dreams made reality because we dared to ask, we dared to demand, not for us, but for the next generation and every american that comes to our nations front yard in an effort to better understand who we are and how we came to be. I know that i and others who have achieved many of the roles that we have achieved in our lives have been done without a museum, but many, how many have been left behind . How many did not see themselves portrayed in a positive light in mainstream media, in news . And how many have abandoned their dreams as a result . And for nonlatinos how many of them continue to see them as them, as invaders, as partners or americans . Or people that have stood shoulder to shoulder in every war dating back before the war of independence simply because they have a limited understanding of the role of the spanish, mexican, indigenous and caribbean people who helped settle more than half of this land 500 years ago. How much of that divide could be addressed by a more accurate telling of our American History<\/a> and how many have a history of stories remained buried in storage or in family attics that could do more to unite us . Thank you very much for having me here today. Thank you, madam ambassador. Thank you all so much for your valuable testimony. The chair will now recognize members for questions and under Committee Rule<\/a> 3d, each willen recognized for five minutes. Id like to now recognize mrmr. Mr. Giago for five minutes. Thank you chairwoman haaland for this meeting. The idea of a museum of the american latinos is not new or unfeasible or unnecessary. In fact, just the opposite. In addition to broad support from congress and from congress to study the possible museum and i quote, a National Museum<\/a> focused on latino American History<\/a> art and culture is not only vital, but essential to americas interest. I know personally the impact of seeing myself and my family respected in the Washington Museum<\/a> in washington d. C. Would of an impact on my young latino sons. Constant racist attacks we heard from delores directed at our community now is a time to acknowledge that latinos have been an essential part of the nation, and have been since its birth and how better to museum. And i have personal experience with delores and back in my younger days there was a from arizona a welleducated man, harvard undergraduate and harvard law school. In the process of looking at studies he insulted her not an important figure in the Civil Rights Movement<\/a> and just because she was caesar chavezs girlfriend. Not recognizing that she was the cofounder of the united farm workers and her long history in the labor and Civil Rights Movement<\/a> and Civil Rights Movement<\/a> and it was a big fight that he and i got into to prove the point number one, we need ethic studies, we need a museum like this to educate not just everyday americans, but even our socalled educated americans. Im happy to say it that this person eventually lost his election and everybody in that push in arizona eventually lost their elections and to this taye theyre all kind of living, still living in ignorance, but at least they have no more power. And so, just moving on from that, again, this is maybe more that we definitely need. Doctor, in your testimony you mentioned the richness and importance of the american Latino History<\/a> and you taught classes on the relationship of history museums to the public. In your opinion, what benefit would having a dedicated museum provide to the public that dispersed exhibits or programs on American History<\/a> will not provide. Centralized versus kind of the roving museums that are occurring right now . Thank you for your question, representative. The question really gets at the core of the centrality of latinos to the United States<\/a>. And whether we can properly and adequately represent and address the history of latinos in the United States<\/a> through the dispersed approach that we currently have. I have grade admiration for so much of what the smithsonian has done through the energy and wisdom and professionalism of the curatorial staff that exists. And so it can be understood in its fullness and energy and richness. Were talking about 500 years of history and historical developments that, you know, really do touch upon and help to shape important critical patterns in American History<\/a> more generally. Im thinking of everything from, you know, colonialism and colonization at the beginning of 500 years of recent history through the period of American Revolution<\/a>, the latin American Revolution<\/a>s of the early 19th century and how the United States<\/a> and latinos played roles in those histories. The u. S. Mexico war, reconstruction and the way that im limited on time. Im going to reclaim my time. Before i end my line of questioning, delores, could you explain how you feel that this was you mentor a lot of young latinos and latinas, myself included, the chairwoman of my first state campaign and instrumental in my whole life. How do you think you as a leader, mentoring many people up here would be further aided by a Latino Museum<\/a> . I think its impossible for each one of us who care about this issue to be able to explain our history in the United States<\/a> of america oneonone. If we have a permanent site where we can say to people, go to the site, not only do we have a permanent place where our history is being shown, demonstrated and told, but we can refer people to that as the africanamerican museum, the native american museum, great contributions, i think, to our country, and we can do the same thing, because our history is very, very complicated as you just mentioned starting with colonialism, et cetera. Its got to be told and people need to be told that. We have to erase the ignorance in our country and its dangerous whats going on right now. I think as congressional leaders here, you are leaders of our country and i think its responsibility to be able to make this happen. And this is something that you might say is going to live beyond you, beyond the time that youre in congress, but im thinking of the history of arizona, of new mexico, of texas, of florida, et cetera, et cetera. You know, people need to know this and i think once they see this history, they will have the understanding and will actually broaden their knowledge and hopefully it will erase some of the ignorance that now exists thats so harmful. Thank you, delores. Thank you mr. Gallego. The chairman now recognizes Ranking Member<\/a> young. Thank you, madam chair. Everybody supports his project. Like buying a plane, everybody wants to buy a plane, but forgets to gut gas into it. For the director, 650 million in a national interspace museum. What do you estimate of cost is going to be for this museum which we support and where are we going to get the funds . Thank you very much for the question. I you know, the issue, it really depends, actually, where the museum is going to be siteed if its an existing building, how big the museum is going to be. A lot of considerations. I think whats necessary in the first instance is a Feasibility Study<\/a> or assessment to be able to determine those very key elements that i just mentioned. So, its you know, if i can tell you that the National Museum<\/a> of africanAmerican History<\/a> and culture, for example, the design and construction alone was over a half a billion dollars, correct. 250 million of which came from congressionally appropriated dollars. Its difficult to really estimate, congressman, at this point the cost of a new Latino Museum<\/a>. About locations . Did the Commission Look<\/a> at locations or do they have anything in mind . With un one of the locations that has been cited and identified is the building between the Smithsonian Castle<\/a> and the hershhorn museum. There are challanges, its 100,000 square feet. Size alone, its a challenge. Its also historically its a historically significant building which means that it would require special care in addressing temperature controls, lighting controls, and human controls. So its a beautiful building no doubt and one of the original museums of the smithsonian, but its smallish. Its smallish in nature. Thats one of the properties that i know the Commission Look<\/a>ed at. Now, which brings me up, i hope, the commission will look at the cost factor, again. And an old building, sometimes its better to build new. Has there been any proposal where theyd build new . I think the Commission Also<\/a> identified, if im not mistaken, the parking area Senate Parking<\/a> area. Im all for. [laughter] right. But i dont know that theres any other vacant space. As you know, vacant space on the mall is quite limited and i would say quite at a premium at this point. Well, i was just thinking about the funding part of it because its always a challenge, we have a lot of backlog. Smithsonian has some backlog in maintenance and everything else. I thought when i heard the testify that one fifth of the population of america is latino. I would suggest, think about and send every latino a letter and say you get a lifetime pass for 200 and maybe 100, maybe it whatever latitude because we could raise that private money and match it with the federal monies and might get something done. Its a project that needs to be funded if we talk about it it has to be done. Im worried about time factor, id like to see it finished before i go somewhere, im not sure where im going to go. I have to think about that. Im always worried about time and i dont want to be delayed and that sort of thing. Any comments on that . Well, you know, the issue of the more broader based funding strategy i think is something that worked quite well, particularly now with the National Museum<\/a> of africanAmerican History<\/a> and culture and im a member myself and contribute modestly to that effort. The federal dollars allocated 250 million that i mentioned earlier were a key to leverage support not only from large corporations, and individuals who had considerable amounts of money to give, foundations and so forth, but it was also, i think, instrumental in dislodging, if you will, or encouraging people to give people at much smaller levels as well. People were really engaged as a member, if they felt that they were part of the effort. But i think the big dollars, the large donations, including from aside from congress, but from your targets, from your bank of americas and so forth are critical to leverage further support from the public. Well, lets get it done. I think its an important factor. And i again thank the panel for their testimony and well go forth. My pleasure. Thank you, mr. Young. Chair recognizes mr. Thank you very much and i appreciate the witnesses coming forward and bringing their expertise and their perspectives to this incredibly important issue that, in my opinion, is important to the United States<\/a> of america and to the world. Id also like to offer to submit for the record some letters of support from the mayor of los angeles and other entities throughout los angeles that are supportive of this Latino Museum<\/a>. That that will be accepted by the chair and also, thank you madam chairwoman for holding this incredibly important hearing. Im a proud american citizen, but equally proud to be the son of immigrants from another country. Im a proud Latino American<\/a> and just blessed to be a member of the United States<\/a> congress. The american people, the world and the 58 million latinos in America Today<\/a> deserve to visit a Latino Museum<\/a> to witness the positive military, scientific, social, and critical economic contributions to our Great American<\/a> nation. The time is overdue for the Smithsonian Institution<\/a> to have a Latino Museum<\/a>. We need to formalize the american Latino Museum<\/a> and end this environmental in america before the american Latino History<\/a>, our stories are treated like a scavenger hunt, both in our educational system and in our smithsonian system. Its nice that the smithsonian has in the work 4500 square foot smithsonian exhibit, thats a step in the right direction, but shame on any person who believes that that is the end game or that that should be the conclusion to the satisfaction that that is, in fact, what our community, what our country deserves. We deserve, just like the africanamerican museum, which is my understanding, the most visited museum on the smithsonian and my understanding the most visited museum in the country. I believe that the Latino Museum<\/a> deserves the similar approximately 400,000 square foot museum, not exhibit, as we are now the largest Minority Group<\/a> in the United States<\/a> of america. I think its important for the livelihood and the positive existence of the current generations of latinos and future generations of latinos that we finally get the respect and the attention that we deserve, the positive attention that we deserve in this great country. We have always been a positive force in this great nation. Whether its receiving the largest number of medal of honor, congressional medal of honor recipients in world war ii as was just mentioned a few minutes ago, to the fact that there are probably more american childrens noses who get wiped by latino hands, than any other community in america. That we have, for example, the son of farm workers who became a United States<\/a> astronaut and was the first person to be outside the planets sphere to speak spanish from out there because he was the son of immigrants. Those kinds of contributions are critical to the selfexpectation of every latino child in america and in the world, to know and understand and believe that we are equals and that we matter. Right now in america we are in a dark time because latinos are being spoken of by the most powerful voice on the planet as being less than equal in ameri america. We need to be the positive force of the chapter of americans as members of congress and as citizens, as residents documented and undocumented of this great nati nation, to be witnessed and included as equals and shame on any person who believes that we deserve anything less than that. Thank you, madam chairwoman, i yield back. Thank you, mr. Cardenas. The chairwoman recognizes thank you for holding this hearing although im not a member of this committee, i wanted to be here, not just as an original cosponsor of this bill, but i truly believe that this will change a lot of perception about the Latino Community<\/a> not just in the United States<\/a>, but also help us with our allies in latin america to understand the importance of the contributions of latinos around the world. And i still wanted to be here to say thank you to my colleague congressman serrano who introduced this bill, hr2420 and this bill we want to just honor the countless contributions made by latinos to the United States<\/a> by establishing this Smithsonian Museum<\/a> and as all of you have already said, latinos have played a pivotal role throughout American History<\/a>. In our case, for more than 500 years, we have shaped the United States<\/a> as military leaders, entrepreneurs, pioneers in science, sports and in the arts, as activists, juryists, diplomates and as elected officials. According to the latest census figures, the u. S. Hispanic population reached a record of 59. 9 million in 2018, that means that we now represent 18 of our nations population and thats a big number. Its then clear that we should understand the United States<\/a> history and what our nation represents, including the struggles, the ideals, and fundamental values and theres a reason that requires, we also understand and tell the story of the american Latino Community<\/a>. Its long overdue that we established this museum right here in our nations capital, to help us achieve that. And as puerto ricos sole representative in congress, this is also something personal to me. I represent more latinos than any other member of congress. I represent 3. 2 million of them and our island has been part of the u. S. Since 1898 and american citizens and since then contributed to this nation in all endeavors, both in war and also in peace. More than 250,000 men and women serve in our armed services, fighting alongside with our fellow americans in every conflict since world war i and many have paid the ultimate sacrifice. And having said that, countless of them are being recognized had like the 65 infantry regiment in the korean war, as well as many others in different areas. However, i think the legacy goes beyond military service. We do have people like jose ferrare, rita moreno, sonia sotomayor, and many years. Examples of Many Puerto Ricans<\/a> that have contributed in every fa fast facet of many parts of life. And delores huerto, its important for the Womans Movement<\/a> and for my generation as well. Nevertheless, i just want to say that i believe establishing this National Museum<\/a> will help us better convey our stories and honor our countless contributions to the United States<\/a>. And in that sense i want to welcome to the ambassador, shes been a great example of what can be done and i just got one question for her directly. As a former ambassador and acting secretary for the western hemisphere, how establishing this museum will help the United States<\/a> to engage with latin american community, our allies in this hemisphere . Thank you very much for the question, congresswoman. I think the greatest gift that we can give to each other is the gift of empowerment and the gift of seeing each other as being able to ask questions and to envision ourselves as friends, as allies, as being able to help each other and as visualizing ourselves as contributors in either the United States<\/a> and wherever one comes from. And i think a museum is really a visual reminder of that gift, of allowing ourselves to identify with people who did not know how to get there, but somehow they did and because they got there and because they fought their way there without models, they made it. And thats the empowerment that we can give each other and we can give not only the americas, but every other community, south america, and central america, this as well. Thank you for coming here and for your living example of how things can be done. With that i yield back. Thank you. And i will now recognize myself for five minutes and ill start with you, miss huerta. I want to thank you for your outspoken and tireless advocacy on behalf of Latin Community<\/a>, farmers, women, lbgtq movement and underserved communities across this country and im very proud to call you a new mexican. Yes, we claim you. Thank you for being born there. As you know, i represent new mexicos first Congressional District<\/a> where our vibrant l Latin Community<\/a> represents half the population and Hispanic Community<\/a> is a living breathing part of our state. And unfortunately theres a lack of understanding of the u. S. Latin experience and latinos have played in shaping our nation as everyone essentially stated in their testimony. As our countrys premier cultural institution, the smithsonians failure to include and represent latin communities and contributions has been damaging on multiple fronts. It not only denies the right to be included and valued as part of the american heritage, it perpetuates an inaccurate belief that latinos have contributed little to our Nations Development<\/a> or culture. Miss huerta considering the community, and the rhetoric, do you believe establishing a museum of the National American<\/a> latino would enhance our nations cultural understanding of this community and contribute to a more Inclusive Society<\/a> . Absolutely because we know, number one, that it really makes a big statement when we have a year in our nations capital, that we have a Latino Museum<\/a>. This is something that will that that will go throughout the United States<\/a> of america, so, it wont be just because its here in washington d. C. And even some of our Congress People<\/a> here, a lot of people dont know the contributions of congressm congressman, the first person in the congress, along with Claude Pepper<\/a> that started the whole issue of ageing, something that is so wellknown and theres a whole campus named after him in atlanta at the center for Disease Control<\/a> and people dont know that. I think even members here of Congress Latino<\/a> members of congress contributed so much and their contributions are unknown because theres no place to be celebrated. Its imperative as has been said often, many times here today, we are at a critical point in our United States<\/a> of america. I think even just the announcement that congress is going to support this and yes, as i said before, im sure a lot of people would contribute to make this happen because this is the sensitivities that is out there in our communities right now. You might say the outrage thats in our community and the fact that we have a lot of activism and momentum in our community. So i think just the announcement itself that the congress is going to do this i think would go a long, long way, as i said before, to start doing some of the healing that we need and some of the enlightenment, some of the knowledge that needs to be out there so we can kind of decrease the amount of hostility and ignorance toward our community. Thank you so much. Over 25 years ago, the smithsonians own willful neglect to report found that latinos, quote, have contributed significantly to every phase and aspect of American History<\/a> and culture, yet, the smithsonian almost entirely excludes and ignores latinos in nearly every aspect of its operations. In addition, the report stated that, quote, budget limitations are not an acceptable reason for failure to increase the latino presence within the smithsonian, unquote. Since the willful neglect to report was in 1994, the smithsonian has taken steps to increase latin representation and inclusion, including the inclusion of the smithsonian Latino Center<\/a> and molina gallery. The first ever gallery on the National Mall<\/a>. Doctor pitti, in your opinion have the smithsonians efforts since the release of its willful neglect report adequately addressed the latinos in the work force and programming . No, they have not. I have a lot of respect for the people that have been trying to do this work, but the resources hasnt been provided that are necessary to teach the children who come through the smithsonian, the millions of visitors who come through the smithsonian. The people who come online. Were simply at a stage in which weve known for a long time that the smithsonian has not adequately represented the depth and the centrality of Latino History<\/a>. And these are wellknown facts in American History<\/a>. These are centrality of latinos has been shown and proven for 100 years by scholars and by others. And so the fact that the smithsonian hasnt devoted adequate resources to me is still shocking. Thank you. Thank you for that. And i will yield and will recogni recognize for five minutes. Thank you, madam chair and i do appreciate you putting this hearing together. It is important. Its the beginning of a process and a process that i think the jurisdiction of this committee is appropriate. Its our jurisdiction is department of interior. The properties that are being discussed as potential sites for a variety of museum presentations that are before congress are all under this jurisdiction. And as such, i think we have an Important Role<\/a> to play if not a critical role. And i also, just some this is not an issue of either or, this is not a question of a latino stand alone museum in competition with internal development and integrating of Latino History<\/a> within the smithsonian, number one. Number two, this is not a competition with any initiatives that are out there, most visibly. The womens history museum, which we support and my colleagues support very strongly. Its not an either or proposition. This is about the Smithsonian Institution<\/a>s charge as the largest museum, education and Research Complex<\/a> and in shaping the future by preserving our heritage, discovering new knowledge and sharing our resources with the world. And all of us here support that mission. We think its very important, the story of america. But until but that charge will remain unfulfilled as long as a major component of the american story, our heritage and our culture and our shared and lived experiences are left untold. That mission will not be accomplished. And a stand alone museum is to that end. And i say that because, you know, and i appreciate the witnesss excellent, thank you all. But were to a point that we dont need to be justifying this initiative over and over again. I think its pretty plain that this is a gap and particularly with the backdrop that others of my colleagues and ms. Huerta mentioned, the backdrop were in historically. The increased crimes against latinos and the attacks on the roles of latinos in this country and the rhetoric that we hear from the top office in in country that has unabashedly targeted latino and underrepresented communities as a form of official policy. For all the more reason, in my view, to accelerate a greater understanding and accelerate the development of a stand alone Latino Museum<\/a>, thats the story of our country and that role is important for not only heritage and growth, but i think more importantly for understanding that we all should share as americans. And i call americans, latinos are not an homogenous group, my friends, were richly diverse, culturally, even linguistically and historically, our experiences are coming from different places and, but thats a fully american presence this year, who i think legacy not only needs to be told, but its the future thats tied to this nation intrinsically, will not be separated from it. And so as full partners in the american story, latinos need to have their place of prominence, period. Not as a prize, but as an acknowledgment to further that understanding that i talked about, so that with our fellow americans through their eyes, they begin to see the latino experience and who we are as richly american as apple pie, as richly tied and welded into the history and future of this nation, thats why this museum is important. Its a statement. Its not a statement of we have arrived. Its a statement that weve been here, weve been toiling in the vineyard, and this is what weve done, and i think we see when the rest of america sees that, theyre going to see it as a major contribution and the full partnership of latinos to this nation. Thats what theyre going to see. Not a separation, an acknowledgment, and a stand alone museum provides us with the prominence, the resources to do that. I dont i dont belittle the effort to integrate and make smithsonian as a whole more presenting of our history and our future, not at all. Thats an interim step in my mind and the final step is a stand alone museum. And i with the chairs leadership on this issue, we hope to be full partners in that effort Going Forward<\/a> and again, madam chair, thank you so much for accommodating the request that you got. Very much appreciated. To the witnesses my appreciation for your comments because nothing to say other than appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you very much. The chair now recognizes mr mr. Horseford for five minutes. Thank you for acknowledging the establishment of the museum for the american latino. Its great to see the witnesses here. Ms. Huerta, great to see you as always. My home state in nevada has increasing Latino Community<\/a>. The Latino Community<\/a> makes up 29 of our states population, meaning nevada has the fifth largest latin population share of all 50 states. In nevadas 4th Congressional District<\/a> im proud to represent, more than 31 of our population is latino with roots in mexico, puerto rico, cuba, el salvador and many other countries. On behalf of my constituents, i am proud to be here today ab vo ka kate advocating for the establishment of the museum for the american latino. Its an important piece of legislation, legislation na not only recognizes the cultural contributions of the american latino, but also attempts to correct an imbalance that exists in the telling of our nations history. For far too long. The contribution, the communities of color made to this country have been cro glosd over and left out and ignored and understated. Its a common practice for this country to forget its past atrocities and paint our history only in best light. This bill, however, recognizes the significant flaws with this approach and how it inhibits a true understanding of our history, how it denies significant parts of our past. It instead highlights the significant role the american latino has played throughout our history. It creates an interactive experience where people can learn the stories written out of their textbooks, where they can learn and appreciate their heritage. For decades, my Community Fought<\/a> to establish a museum of our history, a museum that shows without omissions or edits the history of black people in america. That recognizes the many contributions that africanamericans make to this country and after decades of advocacy, the National Museum<\/a> of africanAmerican History<\/a> and cultural was established by law. The Museum Opened<\/a> less than a decade later in 2012 and now serves as a National Beacon<\/a> of africanAmerican Culture<\/a>. It is a place of our own in d. C. That fully recognizes our participation in this society, a place from where all of the country can visit and have hope that this country is all of our country, that this Government Works<\/a> for us, too, and not just the belong standing majority. Thats why im so happy and proud to join with my colleague congressman serrano of new york and hispanic caucus in advancing latin American History<\/a> in the same way. At a time when some latino immigrants are looked down upon, turned away from our country, separated from their families and insulted and prosecuted by the president , the Latino Community<\/a> needs an is i believe in washington d. C. That reminds them that they are a critical part of the fabric of our great nation and that this country, and rest of america, sees them and represents them. A symbol in washington d. C. That will remind all americans of the proud contributions made to our culture by latin americans. So i hope that this committee, the whole house can join together in a bipartisan way to support the passage of this important legislation, reaffirming the Important Role<\/a> the Latino American<\/a> plays in the United States<\/a> of america. Miss huerta, id like to just ask you based on your longstanding advocacy and legacy, what message this will send having this museum of Latino American<\/a> heritage on the National Mall<\/a> . What does that mean and what message does that send . Well, i think the greater message is that we have been here over centuries, that weve been here and that weve been part of the american, United States<\/a> fabric. And i say United States<\/a> instead of america, we have south america, north america, right . We have been here and you know, that it can be demonstrated and be be recognized and that people can actually go and find our histories in the National Museum<\/a> for latinos. I think its a very, very important part, especially to date, as we said earlier, by others. Today we need this very, very desperately. I think just the announcement itself would go a long way, again, because the only way that we can that we can erase racism is by understanding and by knowledge and this is what the Latino Museum<\/a> would do. It would create that understanding and that knowledge and in the histories that people can actually go to and see for themselves, that were not making it up, its there and they can find it. Thank you. Thank you, madam chair. Thank you. I thank the witnesses so much for their valuable testimony and for coming, for travelling here and being with us today. Your voices are so important here and im very grateful that you were in this committee room. The members of the committee may have some additional questions for all of you, and we will ask you to respond to these in writing. Under Committee Rule<\/a> 30 members of the committee must submit witness questions within three Business Days<\/a> following the hearing and the hearing record will be open for ten Business Days<\/a> for these responses. If theres no further business, without objection, the committee stands adjourned. [inaudible conversations] [inaudible conversations] [inaudible conversations] greg mcguirk from the coalition to defeat isis will talk about the president s decision to withdraw from syria. Thats beginning at noon on cspan2. And discussing an event hosted by the hudson institute. Live at noon eastern. A quick reminder watch all of our coverage online at cspan. Org and listen with the free cspan radio app. Tonight on the communicators. Texas representative Eddie Bernice<\/a> johnson, chair of the science space and Technology Committee<\/a> increasing women and minorities in technology fields. We want to be in a position to furnish our own brain power, the only way were ever going to be able to do that is to educate women and minorities in the stem fields and that comes in many categories. Weve coined a phrase more recently called blue collar stem where no amount of ph. D. s or graduate degrees might even be necessary to have those skills to be very innovative and to be a good in a good work force thats producing some of the innovation. Tonight at 8 p. M. Eastern on cspa cspan2. Our cspan campaign 2020 bus team is travelling across the country, visiting key Battle Ground<\/a> states in the 2020 president ial race, asking voters what issues they want president ial candidates to address during the campaign. An issue to me that is by far the most important, the most paramount in the 2020 election is the Climate Crisis<\/a> and im electing to call it the Climate Crisis<\/a> or the Climate Emergency<\/a> to express the urgency of the matter. According to that same report, 11 years, 2030 to deal with this issue and we needs to understand that 11 years is not a long amount of time this is an emergency. We have to be dealing with this right now today. And thing i really want president ial candidates to be talking about is the Second Amendment<\/a> as to why they want to do like i agree with the whole gun control thing, but its bottthe black market why do they want to take our guns away and take away from the civilians of this country and why do they want to disarm us . And i would like the candidates to address","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"archive.org","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","width":"800","height":"600","url":"\/\/ia801009.us.archive.org\/27\/items\/CSPAN2_20191021_122800_Hearing_on_National_American_Latino_Museum_Legislation\/CSPAN2_20191021_122800_Hearing_on_National_American_Latino_Museum_Legislation.thumbs\/CSPAN2_20191021_122800_Hearing_on_National_American_Latino_Museum_Legislation_000001.jpg"}},"autauthor":{"@type":"Organization"},"author":{"sameAs":"archive.org","name":"archive.org"}}],"coverageEndTime":"20240716T12:35:10+00:00"}