Washington, D.C. – DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement today in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month:
 
“Hispanic Heritage Month, a month-long celebration of Hispanic Americans and the integral role they’ve played in our society, begins today. From communities who have lived here for generations and helped build our country into what it is today, to immigrants who arrived in search of a better life for their families, to the DREAMers who are among the brightest hope for our future, we celebrate Hispanic Americans.
 
“It is troubling when a Republican candidate like Donald Trump enters the presidential race spewing hateful rhetoric about Mexican immigrants and jumps to the top of the polls. It is frustrating to see other Republican candidates follow his lead by endorsing some of the same divisive immigration policies. But it is downright disheartening to see Republicans suggest denying the American citizenship of children born in this country to undocumented parents, with even Jeb Bush referring to these American children using a vile and disgusting term.
 
“These Republicans would do well to take some time over the next month to learn and appreciate the rich heritage of Hispanic Americans. Just as importantly, they should join Democrats in supporting policies – like increasing the minimum wage, promoting equal pay, expanding opportunities for higher education, and ensuring access to quality, affordable health care – that help Hispanic middle class families, and those still climbing the ladders of success to get there.
 
“Hispanic Americans are valuable members of our community, and comprehensive immigration reform will help bring more of our friends and neighbors out of the shadows. Meanwhile the Democratic Party will continue to support President Obama’s plan to keep immigrant families together and will keep fighting for the American Dreams of Hispanic communities across the country.”