09/14/04

September 15, 2004, marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month and the anniversary of independence for five Hispanic countries - Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico achieved its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18. Today, Hispanics are one of the fastest growing minority groups in our country. Totaling over 35 million, Hispanics now make up 15 percent of our nation's population and represent a broad spectrum of color, cultural values, and political beliefs.

Hardworking Hispanic Americans have made a significant impact on the economic development of the United States. Hispanic businesses generate nearly $200 billion annually and employ over 1.5 million Americans. Despite these numbers, Hispanics remain the most educationally disadvantaged among public school students. Historically, 1.3 million Hispanics drop out of high school each year. About 55 percent of Hispanics 25 years and older have completed high school, compared to 84 percent of Anglos and 76 percent of African Americans. Similarly, only 11 percent of Hispanics have obtained a bachelor's degree. While these numbers are rising, there is still a significant gap that must be addressed.

In DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam, we will continue to work to improve the achievement of Hispanic students thanks to recent DoDEA initiatives in math, reading and technology. Although not exempt from the struggles experienced by other diverse groups that have come to our country seeking the American dream, Hispanics have achieved success in virtually every field, from the arts and sciences, to the world of e-commerce. Hispanics have served their country in the local, State and Federal Government where they hold over 5,000 elected positions nationwide. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we should also take pride in the generations of Hispanic Americans who have served in America 's Armed Forces - served to protect and defend a nation they love.

During this month, we proudly recognize Hispanics for their contributions to this great country. Now and long ago, Hispanics have taken their place among the leadership in family, business, politics, education, sports, science, and the arts. As a result of their contributions to American history, our Hispanic heritage is a thread interwoven into the fabric of a greater America.

We are a richly diverse nation. It is our dream of opportunity and freedom that unites all Americans of every descent. Today it's our pleasure to honor our Hispanic friends, neighbors, and colleagues. I call upon all of DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam to observe September 15-October 15, 2004 with appropriate celebrations and events.

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam