Gerald R. Ford

“ The America whose Bicentennial we celebrate this year was created and made great by the efforts of people who came to the shores of the new world in search of a future in which their opportunity would be determined by their own industry and desire to make better lives for themselves and their children. ”

“ Americas Hispanic heritage was strong even before we achieved our independence. Men and women of Hispanic origin fought in the Revolutionary War and in subsequent conflicts. They have enriched our culture, arts and scholarship. They have used their talents to help America build a society based on ideals of freedom and equality. ”