Congressman Gonzalez Asks Americans to Set Aside Divisiveness, and Promote American Optimism
WASHINGTON – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) recently spoke on the House Floor to ask Americans to set aside divisiveness, and promote American optimism.
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Speech transcript:
"During one of the most divisive times in American history, I rise today Madame Speaker, in a moment of American Optimism.
And in this freshly minted 116th Congress, the most DIVERSE in our history, I welcome all new members, young and old, Democrats and Republicans, from the North, South, East and West, male or female, gay or straight, Jew or gentile.
And I ask you to join me on this journey of optimism.
Today is the beginning of the rest of our history.
The history of the opportunity we have before us to find solutions to our nation's problems.
The everyday problems that our people live within our diverse land.
Let us never forget who we are, and the greatness we have shown the world.
Let us never forget, that this is the America that freed slaves, granted religious freedoms, fed the hungry, and welcomed the stranger.
The America that spread democracy and freedom around the globe, the America that freed Europe, and defended others from bullies and foes.
The America that gave the world electricity and light.
We put the first man on the moon, and flew the first woman across the pond, created the internet and the iPhone.
And yes, Facebook and Twitter too!
We gave the world baseball and proudly root for our Olympians who lead the world in medals.
We entertain the world with Hollywood, MTV, American pop, hip hop, Tejano, Country, rock ‘n' roll, and jazz.
We bring smiles and joy to children around the world through Mickey and Mini Mouse.
We are also the country of the Mayo, John Hopkins, MD Anderson and Cleveland Clinics.
And all of this while enjoying the largest economy in the world.
This is the America the world longs to be.
And this is the America we have a responsibility to be.
The America the world is always patiently and optimistically waiting and watching to see the next great thing we do!
We are the America that came together in solidarity after 9/11.
Let us not forget, we are still that America.
To the young in this country, I promise, you are gonna be ok because I still believe that everyone serving in this body sincerely loves this country, and that at the end of the day rises to the occasion to do what is right.
There is nothing greater than staying united, conserving our creativity and work ethic while respecting our differences.
The world is counting on us!
To you America, I toast, I toast with my freshly brewed Starbucks double espresso!
Another American gem.
And that my friends, is what makes America great!
I yield back the balance of my time."
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