Today, I’m headed just a few blocks over to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to take part in their Hispanic Heritage Month Observance ceremony. The theme of this year’s observance is “Heritage, Diversity, Integrity and Honor: The Renewed Hope of America.” It’s an honor for me to take part in such a celebration, to mark the many contributions that Hispanic and Latinos have made to this country.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is important to me, both for personal and professional reasons. My parents, who were born in Mexico, have instilled in me a deep respect for my heritage. My family always placed a huge emphasis on education, and their sacrifices on my behalf have made it possible for me to be where I am today.
This is why I’m so proud and so excited to be working in this Administration. I get up in the morning fired up about the opportunity to revitalize and move forward America’s education reform agenda – both for the Latino community and the nation as a whole. Our success as a country depends on the success of our children, and I urge you to join us in this movement to offer a world-class education for all of our students.
Dr. Meléndez
