[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 74 (Tuesday, June 7, 2005)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1147] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] TRIBUTE TO THE 2005 NATIONAL PUERTO RICAN DAY PARADE ______ HON. JOSE E. SERRANO of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 7, 2005 Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to the 47th annual Puerto Rican Day Parade, which will be held on June 12, 2005 in New York City. This parade, which celebrates the heritage of the Puerto Rican people, is one of the largest outdoor events in the United States. The first New York Puerto Rican Day parade, held on Sunday, April 12, 1958 in ``El Barrio'' in Manhattan was a wonderful event presented in the heart of the city's Puerto Rican community. In 1995, the overwhelming success of the parade prompted organizers to increase its size, and transform it into a national affair now known as the National Puerto Rican Day Parade. This magnificent New York institution now includes participation from delegates representing thirty one states, including Alaska and Hawaii and attracts over 3 million parade goers every year. The great success that this parade has enjoyed over the years is a result of the tireless work of many individuals from all walks of life--who are dedicated to preserving and celebrating Puerto Rican heritage and culture. Leading this effort is the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc., a non-profit organization founded in 1995 with the mission of increasing the self awareness and pride of the Puerto Rican people in order to promote economic development, education, cultural recognition, and advancement. The Parade up New York's Fifth Avenue, while certainly the most visible aspect of the celebration of the Puerto Rican people, is not the only event associated with the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc.'s activities. More than 10,000 people each year attend a variety of award ceremonies, banquets and cultural events which not only help to highlight but also strengthen the special relationship shared by Puerto Ricans and the City of New York. Over the years, the two have developed a symbiotic relationship--Puerto Ricans sharing a vibrant and beautiful culture and helping to turn New York into a bilingual city and the City of New York helping Puerto Ricans to flourish economically, politically and culturally. The annual parade captures the spirit of this special relationship and celebrates its success. Mr. Speaker, as a Puerto Rican, a New Yorker, and a Member of Congress, it is an honor to participate in this national event every year in which thousands of individuals march along Fifth Avenue in celebration. The National Puerto Rican Day Parade is a communal cultural treasure, national in scope and impact, and one that unites all New Yorkers. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the Puerto Rican people and to all who have worked to ensure that the upcoming parade is a success. ____________________