Ronald Reagan

“ The strong family and cultural ties which bind Hispanics in the United States with our nearest neighbors are an important element of strength, unity, and understanding in the Western Hemisphere. The freedom of our neighbors is our freedom. Their security is our security. We Americans seek justice, economic progress, the spirit of good neighborliness throughout the hemisphere, and we count on Americans of Hispanic heritage for special insight and leadership as we work together toward these goals. ”

“ One of the greatest strengths of our Nation is its rich mixture of people from various cultural backgrounds. Americans of Hispanic heritage have made an immense and unique contribution. In thousands of communities across the land, Hispanics are a vital element in fostering America's achievements in fields as diverse as the arts and industry, agriculture and education, religion and business, science and politics.
People from Spain were among the first explorers and settlers in the New World, long before the United States became an independent Nation. ”

“ They came in search of a better life for themselves and their children, and they have helped to create a richer life for all of us.
In our international relations, Hispanic Americans also contribute to our Nation's identity-our own perception of who we are and our role in the world. ”