WHEREAS, The Mexican community in the State of Washington celebrates, on the 5th of May, their fight against the French; and
     WHEREAS, Every year this celebration has been growing and today is celebrated all over the State; and
     WHEREAS, The leader of the opposition to the foreign invasion was the Mexican President Benito Juárez; and
     WHEREAS, Benito Juárez was a poor Zapotec Indian orphaned child, who learned Spanish and through his dedication to study and hard work, was able to overcome poverty and discrimination and became an outstanding lawyer who reached the highest offices in his country including Supreme Court Chief, Governor, and President of Mexico. He created innumerable laws defending the rights of the Mexican people. The year 2006 will mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of Benito Juárez; and
     WHEREAS, Benito Juárez served as an example for people of all Latin-American countries, and for this reason he was proclaimed "Benemérito of the Americas"; and
     WHEREAS, Benito Juárez is a magnificent example of how dedication to study, hard work, and service to society can help overcome poverty, ignorance, and discrimination;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives congratulate the Latino community on the occasion of Cinco de Mayo and for recognizing and honoring Benito Juárez for the example he has set and his fight for social justice; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Conexión Latina, Centro Latino, Centro Mexicano, and Grupo Mexico.