Latino leaders in the United States continue to strive for the American Dream, helping those around them reach it. Whether they have been here for generations or have recently arrived, Latinos have played a crucial role in pushing our country forward. These leaders include community organizers, faith leaders, union advocates, first responders, and individuals who stand for the safety and welfare of the nation. Latinos represent the heart of America—teachers, doctors, athletes, artists, business leaders, public servants, and more—embodying the possibilities of the American dream and working to build a better future for the next generation.
President Biden works closely with notable Latino leaders like Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, SBA Administrator Isabel Guzman, and others who are dedicated to bettering the nation.
The American Dream for All
The Biden Administration is committed to ensuring that the American Dream is attainable for every person. Since taking office, nearly 16 million jobs have been created, resulting in record-low unemployment among Latinos. Latino entrepreneurs are launching businesses at the fastest rate in over 25 years, and Small Business Administration loans to Latino-owned businesses have more than doubled.
Significant investments have been made in Hispanic-serving colleges and universities, totaling over $15 billion. Additionally, student debt cancellation for nearly five million people has lightened the burden on Latino borrowers, and measures have been taken to address bias in the home appraisal process. The Administration has also worked to make health care more accessible, with doubled Latino enrollment under the Affordable Care Act and Medicare reforms that cap insulin prices and lower prescription drug costs.
Building a Fair Immigration System
On his first day in office, President Biden sent a comprehensive immigration reform bill to Congress. It includes more resources for border security, expanded visas, and a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. While Congress has yet to act, the Administration is making strides in protecting Dreamers, including granting them access to health insurance and education resources. Additionally, steps have been taken to help reunite families separated at the border and to facilitate the legal status of noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens.
Honoring the Legacy of Cesar Chavez
In the Oval Office, President Biden keeps a bust of Cesar Chavez, a reminder of Chavez’s words: “Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own.” The President is committed to building a future where Latinos can thrive—one grounded in honesty, respect, and faith.
Proclamation of National Hispanic Heritage Month
In recognition of the achievements of the Hispanic and Latino community, Congress has authorized the President to issue a proclamation annually designating September 15 through October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 15 through October 15, 2024, as National Hispanic Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs that celebrate Hispanic heritage and recognize the profound impact Hispanic peoples have had on our nation.