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FOIA Number:
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MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13620
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13620-007
Folder Title:
Cinco De Mayo 5/5/92 [OA 6101]
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26
18
1
7
CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES \ MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992 I 2 P.M.
THANK YOU, AMBASSADOR PETRICIOLI; AND THANKS To ALL
OF YOU FOR THAT WARM WELCOME INTO THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE.
THERE ARE MANY FAMILIAR FACES OUT THERE, INCLUDING
REPRESENTATIVES OF BOTH OUR GOVERNMENTS -- I SEE
SENATOR GRAMM, REPRESENTATIVE KOLBE, AND OTHERS. I WAS
PLEASED TO TALK TO JOSE NINO [NEE-NO] AND RAUL
YZAGUIRRE [EE-SAH-GUI-RE] EARLIER.
IT
- 2 -
I WANT TO CONGRATULATE PRESIDENT CARLOS SALINAS FOR
PRESERVING THIS REMARKABLE HISTORICAL LANDMARK -- AND
FOR CREATING THIS INSTITUTE To STRENGTHEN THE TIES OF
FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN OUR NATIONS.
RELATIONS BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND MEXICO ARE
TREMENDOUSLY IMPORTANT To BOTH OF OUR LANDS -- AND IT'S
EXCITING TO NOTE THAT THESE RELATIONS HAVE NEVER BEEN
BETTER THAN THEY ARE RIGHT NOW.
- 3 -
I TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN THAT -- AND I COMMEND MY FRIEND
PRESIDENT SALINAS FOR THE ROLE HE'S PLAYED IN
STRENGTHENING THIS SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP THAT BENEFITS
BOTH OUR PEOPLES. III
I WANT TO THANK ALL OF YOU FOR LETTING ME SHARE IN
THIS VERY SPECIAL DAY -- A DAY MADE EVEN MORE
MEANINGFUL BECAUSE 1992 MARKS 500 YEARS OF HISPANIC
HERITAGE IN THIS HEMISPHERE.
TT
- 4 -
THIS HERITAGE IS A WONDERFUL, RICH TAPESTRY THAT
BARBARA, OUR KIDS AND I WERE LUCKY ENOUGH TO FIRST
EXPERIENCE DURING OUR WEST TEXAS YEARS. I REMEMBER OUR
CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVITIES, EXPLORING THE TIES BETWEEN
OUR COUNTRIES -- TIES OF FAMILY, FRIENDSHIP, FAITH.
THE BUSHES ARE LUCKY To BE ABLE TO KEEP THAT
CELEBRATION ALIVE -- OUR DAUGHTER-IN-LAW AND THREE OF
OUR GRANDKIDS ARE HISPANIC-AMERICAN, AND THEY BRING THE
WONDER OF THIS DUAL HERITAGE INTO OUR FAMILY.
- 5 -
I REMEMBER BEING so PROUD WHEN LITTLE NOELLE AND HER
MARIACHI GROUP SANG AT BARBARA'S FIRST LADY'S LUNCHEON
DURING OUR INAUGURATION. III
WE ALL KNOW THE FACTS OF CINCO DE MAYO -- THAT
LONG-AGO MAY 5TH WHEN GENERAL ZARAGOZA AND HIS
OUTNUMBERED TROOPS STOOD UP TO THE EMPIRE OF NAPOLEON
III. STIRRING FACTS.
TT
- 6 -
BUT WHAT'S MOST IMPORTANT IS THE SPIRIT OF THAT DAY
-- THE SPIRIT OF THOSE FEW POORLY-ARMED MEN WHO TURNED
THE BATTLE INTO A GLORIOUS SYMBOL. CINCO DE MAYO IS A
SYMBOL OF THE STRUGGLE FOR SELF-DETERMINATION AGAINST
ASTOUNDING ODDS. IT'S THE SYMBOL OF A BRAVE PEOPLE'S
UNBEATABLE DETERMINATION TO FIGHT FOR THEIR OWN
DESTINY.
- 7 -
IT'S A DAY LIKE THE DOWNING OF THE BERLIN WALL --
THE VOTE AGAINST APARTHEID -- THE DEFEAT OF IRAQ'S
AGGRESSION -- EVENTS THAT TRANSFORM OUR WORLD AND THE
WAY WE SEE EACH OTHER. III
It's ALSO, OF COURSE, A NATIONAL HOLIDAY -- A DAY
OF PRIDE IN MEXICAN CULTURE AND HERITAGE. THE Los
ANGELES UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SPONSORS AN ANNUAL
CINCO DE MAYO ESSAY CONTEST, AND I WANT TO SHARE WITH
YOU A COUPLE OF QUOTES.
- 8 -
A SENIOR HIGH STUDENT WROTE THAT THIS DAY "INSTILLED
WITHIN ME PRIDE AND APPRECIATION FOR THE BEAUTY OF MY
PEOPLE AND THE RICHNESS OF MY ROOTS." 11 A MIDDLE
SCHOOL STUDENT WROTE: "THE REAL SIGNIFICANCE OF CINCO
DE MAYO IS THE PRIDE MEXICANS EVERYWHERE HAVE IN THEIR
HERITAGE. " 11
THAT'S A GLORIOUS THING TO CELEBRATE. WHEN I THINK
OF THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY THE FIRST WORDS TO COME To
MIND ARE -- FAITH, FAMILY, AND FREEDOM.
- 9 -
THESE VALUES HAVE BEEN INTERWOVEN INTO THE STRONG,
BRIGHT FABRIC OF THE HISPANIC TRADITION FOR GENERATIONS
-- AND THEY'RE ALSO THE VERY VALUES THIS NATION WAS
FOUNDED ON. III
CINCO DE MAYO SHOWS THAT WE ALL HAVE DEBTS TO OUR
ANCESTORS WHO TOOK RISKS AND MADE SACRIFICES FOR US --
WHETHER ON THE BATTLEFIELD OR THE FARM FIELD.
IT
- 10 -
WE MUST HONOR THESE MEN AND WOMEN WHO ACHED TO PASS ON
A RICHER LIFE, A FREER LIFE, A BETTER LIFE -- WHO
SACRIFICED ALL THEY HAD IN ORDER TO GUARANTEE
OPPORTUNITY, FREEDOM AND HOPE FOR THEIR CHILDREN AND
THEIR CHILDREN'S CHILDREN.
ONE ESSAY WINNER WROTE: "CELEBRATING THE DEEDS OF
OUR ANCESTORS HELPS US KEEP IN TOUCH WITH OUR HISTORY
-- AND REMINDS US OF PAST SUFFERING AND HARDSHIP THAT
BROUGHT ABOUT THE COMFORT WE HAVE TODAY." III
- 11 -
CINCO DE MAYO DOESN'T BELONG SOLELY TO ANOTHER LAND
-- IT'S A CELEBRATION OF IDEALS THAT KNOW NO BORDER.
TODAY WE REJOICE THAT THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO CAME TO
THIS COUNTRY FROM ACROSS THE WORLD BROUGHT THEIR FINEST
STRENGTHS, THEIR RICH CULTURE, THEIR PROUDEST
TRADITIONS, AND FIT THEM INTO THE VIBRANT MOSAIC THAT
IS AMERICA. III
- 12 -
WE MUST ALSO LOOK TOWARD THE FUTURE, TO PREPARE THE
LEGACY WE WILL LEAVE OUR CHILDREN. I BELIEVE OF ALL
THE GIFTS WE COULD GIVE THEM, THE THREE MOST IMPORTANT
ARE -- JOBS, FAMILY AND PEACE. 11
THE AMERICA WE WILL LEAVE TO OUR CHILDREN WILL BE A
BETTER LAND AND A MORE JUST LAND, IF WE MAKE PROGRESS
IN FIVE KEY AREAS.
- 13 -
WE MUST REFORM OUR HEALTH CARE SYSTEM -- OUR LEGAL
SYSTEM -- OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM -- AND OUR SYSTEM OF
GOVERNMENT. AND WE MUST EXPAND WORLD TRADE. THESE ARE
THE KEYS TO THRIVING IN THE FUTURE. III
AND so MUCH DEPENDS UPON TRADE. MEXICO AND THE
UNITED STATES SHARE A GREAT DEAL. PRESIDENT SALINAS IS
A DEAR FRIEND -- A BOLD AND IMAGINATIVE LEADER.
H
- 14 -
THE DEEP AND ENDURING RELATIONSHIP WE'RE FORGING
BETWEEN OUR COUNTRIES IS BASED ON COOPERATION, MUTUAL
RESPECT -- AND OPEN TRADE. I WILL FIGHT TO TEAR DOWN
ECONOMIC BARRIERS WITH MEXICO. 111
I NOTICE THE PORTRAIT OF BENITO JUAREZ WATCHING US
RIGHT NOW -- SEEING HIM REMINDS ME OF THAT GREAT FRESCO
I SAW UPSTAIRS -- "THE LIBERATORS OF THE AMERICAN
CONTINENT."
- 15 -
FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T SEEN IT, IT'S A SYMBOL OF THE
FRIENDSHIP AND UNION WE SHARE .. IT SHOWS THE GREAT
LEADERS OF OUR LANDS, AND A PICTURE OF NORTH AMERICA
AND LATIN AMERICA SHAKING HANDS.
THIS IDEALIZED PORTRAIT SHOWS WHAT WE'RE GOING TO
ACHIEVE IN TRADE -- BECAUSE I AM ABSOLUTELY COMMITTED
TO SIGNING A SOUND NORTH AMERICAN FREE TRADE AGREEMENT
AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. III
- 16 -
THE TIME OF OPPORTUNITY IS NOW. I'VE TOLD OUR
NEGOTIATORS TO ACCELERATE THEIR WORK. I BELIEVE WE CAN
CONCLUDE A SOUND, SENSIBLE DEAL BEFORE THE ELECTION --
AND I WILL SIGN IT AS SOON AS IT'S READY. III
A GREAT LESSON OF OUR AGE IS THAT TRADE AND
ENTERPRISE CAN BUILD JOBS AND PRESERVE FREEDOM. NAFTA
WILL BE THE KEY TO HIGHER STANDARDS OF LIVING FOR THE
PEOPLES OF OUR CONTINENT. 11
IT WILL LIBERATE OUR MARKETS.
- 17 -
AND IT WILL INCREASE TRADE, INVESTMENT, AND JOBS
-- YES, JOBS -- IN MEXICO, IN CANADA, AND RIGHT HERE IN
THE UNITED STATES. III
A FREE TRADE MARKET MADE UP OF THESE THREE NATIONS
WOULD BE THE STUFF OF DREAMS -- ONE OF THE LARGEST
MARKETS IN THE WORLD -- 360 MILLION CONSUMERS IN A $6
TRILLION ECONOMY.
IT
- 18 -
MEXICO IS AMONG THE FASTEST GROWING NATIONAL
MARKETS FOR US EXPORTS -- THEY HAVE INCREASED BY 2/3
OVER THE PAST 3 YEARS -- AND OUR EXPORTS OF AUTO PARTS
AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT HAVE DOUBLED. IMAGINE
WHAT WILL HAPPEN UNDER NAFTA.
IT WILL CREATE THOUSANDS MORE JOBS ON BOTH SIDES OF
THE BORDER -- AND ALL OF US WILL BE WINNERS. III
IN THAT SPIRIT OF VITAL COOPERATION, I KNOW WE'LL
GROW TOGETHER.
- 19 -
BUT ALL COMMUNITIES WITHIN THESE UNITED STATES NEED TO
PAUSE RIGHT NOW, IN THE WAKE OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS IN
Los ANGELES.
WE MUST RE-THINK AND RE-AFFIRM THE BONDS THAT KNIT
ALL NATIONALITIES TOGETHER. THE VIOLENCE BROUGHT MUCH
SUFFERING TO THE Los ANGELES HISPANIC COMMUNITY. I AM
CERTAIN MANY OF YOU SHARED IN THEIR PAIN.
- 20 -
AND EVEN AS MY HEART TOO GOES OUT TO THEM, I FOUND IN
THE MIDST OF THE DEVASTATION, THERE WERE SIGNS OF
PROMISE -- NEIGHBOR HELPING NEIGHBOR, REGARDLESS OF
RACE.
CONVERGING IN Los ANGELES WERE THREE FUNDAMENTAL
ISSUES OF A CIVILIZED SOCIETY -- JUSTICE, ORDER AND
TOLERANCE. THESE MUST REMAIN OUR GOALS AS WE MEND THE
WOUNDS OF Los ANGELES.
- 21 -
FROM NEW YORK TO SAN ANTONIO TO SAN JOSE, WE MUST
REDOUBLE OUR EFFORTS TO BUILD ON OUR STRENGTHS -- THE
SAME STRENGTHS OF CHARACTER AT THE HEART OF THE
HISPANIC COMMUNITY. III
MY FRIENDS, I LOOK FORWARD TO SPENDING FUTURE CINCO
DE MAYO DAYS WITH YOU -- I LOVED THE MARIACHI MUSIC,
AND I CAN'T WAIT TO HEAR IT AGAIN.
- 22 -
THANKS AGAIN FOR INCLUDING ME IN YOUR DAY -- HERE'S
SOMETHING MY 8-YEAR-OLD GRANDSON JEBBY TAUGHT ME TO SAY
-- "VAYAN CON DIOS!"
# # # # #
CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES \ MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992 \ 2 P.M.
THANK YOU, AMBASSADOR PETRICIOLI; AND THANKS TO ALL
OF YOU FOR THAT WARM WELCOME INTO THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE.
THERE ARE MANY FAMILIAR FACES OUT THERE, INCLUDING
REPRESENTATIVES OF BOTH OUR GOVERNMENTS -- I SEE
SENATOR GRAMM, REPRESENTATIVE KOLBE, AND OTHERS. I WAS
PLEASED TO TALK TO JOSE NINO [NEE-NO] AND RAUL
YZAGUIRRE [EE-SAH-GUI-RE] EARLIER.
- 2 -
I WANT TO CONGRATULATE PRESIDENT CARLOS SALINAS FOR
PRESERVING THIS REMARKABLE HISTORICAL LANDMARK -- AND
FOR CREATING THIS INSTITUTE To STRENGTHEN THE TIES OF
FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN OUR NATIONS.
RELATIONS BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND MEXICO ARE
TREMENDOUSLY IMPORTANT TO BOTH OF OUR LANDS -- AND IT'S
EXCITING TO NOTE THAT THESE RELATIONS HAVE NEVER BEEN
BETTER THAN THEY ARE RIGHT NOW.
- 3 -
I TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN THAT -- AND I COMMEND MY FRIEND
PRESIDENT SALINAS FOR THE ROLE HE'S PLAYED IN
STRENGTHENING THIS SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP THAT BENEFITS
BOTH OUR PEOPLES. III
I WANT TO THANK ALL OF YOU FOR LETTING ME SHARE IN
THIS VERY SPECIAL DAY -- A DAY MADE EVEN MORE
MEANINGFUL BECAUSE 1992 MARKS 500 YEARS OF HISPANIC
HERITAGE IN THIS HEMISPHERE.
T
- 4 -
THIS HERITAGE IS A WONDERFUL, RICH TAPESTRY THAT
BARBARA, OUR KIDS AND I WERE LUCKY ENOUGH TO FIRST
EXPERIENCE DURING OUR WEST TEXAS YEARS. I REMEMBER OUR
CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVITIES, EXPLORING THE TIES BETWEEN
OUR COUNTRIES -- TIES OF FAMILY, FRIENDSHIP, FAITH.
THE BUSHES ARE LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO KEEP THAT
CELEBRATION ALIVE -- OUR DAUGHTER-IN-LAW AND THREE OF
OUR GRANDKIDS ARE HISPANIC-AMERICAN, AND THEY BRING THE
WONDER OF THIS DUAL HERITAGE INTO OUR FAMILY.
- 5 -
I REMEMBER BEING so PROUD WHEN LITTLE NOELLE AND HER
MARIACHI GROUP SANG AT BARBARA'S FIRST LADY'S LUNCHEON
DURING OUR INAUGURATION. 111
WE ALL KNOW THE FACTS OF CINCO DE MAYO -- THAT
LONG-AGO MAY 5TH WHEN GENERAL ZARAGOZA AND HIS
OUTNUMBERED TROOPS STOOD UP TO THE EMPIRE OF NAPOLEON
III. STIRRING FACTS.
TT
- 6 -
BUT WHAT'S MOST IMPORTANT IS THE SPIRIT OF THAT DAY
-- THE SPIRIT OF THOSE FEW POORLY-ARMED MEN WHO TURNED
THE BATTLE INTO A GLORIOUS SYMBOL. CINCO DE MAYO IS A
SYMBOL OF THE STRUGGLE FOR SELF-DETERMINATION AGAINST
ASTOUNDING ODDS. It's THE SYMBOL OF A BRAVE PEOPLE'S
UNBEATABLE DETERMINATION TO FIGHT FOR THEIR OWN
DESTINY.
- 7 -
IT'S A DAY LIKE THE DOWNING OF THE BERLIN WALL --
THE VOTE AGAINST APARTHEID -- THE DEFEAT OF IRAQ'S
AGGRESSION -- EVENTS THAT TRANSFORM OUR WORLD AND THE
WAY WE SEE EACH OTHER. III
It's ALSO, OF COURSE, A NATIONAL HOLIDAY -- A DAY
OF PRIDE IN MEXICAN CULTURE AND HERITAGE. THE Los
ANGELES UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SPONSORS AN ANNUAL
CINCO DE MAYO ESSAY CONTEST, AND I WANT TO SHARE WITH
YOU A COUPLE OF QUOTES.
- 8 -
A SENIOR HIGH STUDENT WROTE THAT THIS DAY "INSTILLED
WITHIN ME PRIDE AND APPRECIATION FOR THE BEAUTY OF MY
PEOPLE AND THE RICHNESS OF MY ROOTS." 11 A MIDDLE
SCHOOL STUDENT WROTE: "THE REAL SIGNIFICANCE OF CINCO
DE MAYO IS THE PRIDE MEXICANS EVERYWHERE HAVE IN THEIR
HERITAGE." 11
THAT'S A GLORIOUS THING TO CELEBRATE. WHEN I THINK
OF THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY THE FIRST WORDS TO COME TO
MIND ARE -- FAITH, FAMILY, AND FREEDOM.
- 9 -
THESE VALUES HAVE BEEN INTERWOVEN INTO THE STRONG,
BRIGHT FABRIC OF THE HISPANIC TRADITION FOR GENERATIONS
-- AND THEY'RE ALSO THE VERY VALUES THIS NATION WAS
FOUNDED ON. III
CINCO DE MAYO SHOWS THAT WE ALL HAVE DEBTS TO OUR
ANCESTORS WHO TOOK RISKS AND MADE SACRIFICES FOR US --
WHETHER ON THE BATTLEFIELD OR THE FARM FIELD.
I
- 10 -
WE MUST HONOR THESE MEN AND WOMEN WHO ACHED TO PASS ON
A RICHER LIFE, A FREER LIFE, A BETTER LIFE -- WHO
SACRIFICED ALL THEY HAD IN ORDER TO GUARANTEE
OPPORTUNITY, FREEDOM AND HOPE FOR THEIR CHILDREN AND
THEIR CHILDREN'S CHILDREN.
ONE ESSAY WINNER WROTE: "CELEBRATING THE DEEDS OF
OUR ANCESTORS HELPS US KEEP IN TOUCH WITH OUR HISTORY
-- AND REMINDS US OF PAST SUFFERING AND HARDSHIP THAT
BROUGHT ABOUT THE COMFORT WE HAVE TODAY." III
- 11 -
CINCO DE MAYO DOESN'T BELONG SOLELY TO ANOTHER LAND
-- IT'S A CELEBRATION OF IDEALS THAT KNOW NO BORDER.
TODAY WE REJOICE THAT THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO CAME TO
THIS COUNTRY FROM ACROSS THE WORLD BROUGHT THEIR FINEST
STRENGTHS, THEIR RICH CULTURE, THEIR PROUDEST
TRADITIONS, AND FIT THEM INTO THE VIBRANT MOSAIC THAT
IS AMERICA. III
- 12 -
WE MUST ALSO LOOK TOWARD THE FUTURE, TO PREPARE THE
LEGACY WE WILL LEAVE OUR CHILDREN. I BELIEVE OF ALL
THE GIFTS WE COULD GIVE THEM, THE THREE MOST IMPORTANT
ARE -- JOBS, FAMILY AND PEACE. 11
THE AMERICA WE WILL LEAVE TO OUR CHILDREN WILL BE A
BETTER LAND AND A MORE JUST LAND, IF WE MAKE PROGRESS
IN FIVE KEY AREAS.
- 13 -
WE MUST REFORM OUR HEALTH CARE SYSTEM -- OUR LEGAL
SYSTEM -- OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM -- AND OUR SYSTEM OF
GOVERNMENT. AND WE MUST EXPAND WORLD TRADE. THESE ARE
THE KEYS TO THRIVING IN THE FUTURE. III
AND so MUCH DEPENDS UPON TRADE. MEXICO AND THE
UNITED STATES SHARE A GREAT DEAL. PRESIDENT SALINAS IS
A DEAR FRIEND -- A BOLD AND IMAGINATIVE LEADER.
H
- 14 -
THE DEEP AND ENDURING RELATIONSHIP WE'RE FORGING
BETWEEN OUR COUNTRIES IS BASED ON COOPERATION, MUTUAL
RESPECT -- AND OPEN TRADE. I WILL FIGHT TO TEAR DOWN
ECONOMIC BARRIERS WITH MEXICO. 111
I NOTICE THE PORTRAIT OF BENITO JUAREZ WATCHING US
RIGHT NOW -- SEEING HIM REMINDS ME OF THAT GREAT FRESCO
I SAW UPSTAIRS -- "THE LIBERATORS OF THE AMERICAN
CONTINENT."
- 15 -
FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T SEEN IT, IT'S A SYMBOL OF THE
FRIENDSHIP AND UNION WE SHARE -- IT SHOWS THE GREAT
LEADERS OF OUR LANDS, AND A PICTURE OF NORTH AMERICA
AND LATIN AMERICA SHAKING HANDS.
THIS IDEALIZED PORTRAIT SHOWS WHAT WE'RE GOING TO
ACHIEVE IN TRADE -- BECAUSE I AM ABSOLUTELY COMMITTED
TO SIGNING A SOUND NORTH AMERICAN FREE TRADE AGREEMENT
AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
- 16 -
THE TIME OF OPPORTUNITY IS NOW. I'VE TOLD OUR
NEGOTIATORS TO ACCELERATE THEIR WORK. I BELIEVE WE CAN
CONCLUDE A SOUND, SENSIBLE DEAL BEFORE THE ELECTION --
AND I WILL SIGN IT AS SOON AS IT'S READY. III
A GREAT LESSON OF OUR AGE IS THAT TRADE AND
ENTERPRISE CAN BUILD JOBS AND PRESERVE FREEDOM. NAFTA
WILL BE THE KEY TO HIGHER STANDARDS OF LIVING FOR THE
PEOPLES OF OUR CONTINENT. 11
IT WILL LIBERATE OUR MARKETS.
- 17 -
AND IT WILL INCREASE TRADE, INVESTMENT, AND JOBS
-- YES, JOBS -- IN MEXICO, IN CANADA, AND RIGHT HERE IN
THE UNITED STATES. III
A FREE TRADE MARKET MADE UP OF THESE THREE NATIONS
WOULD BE THE STUFF OF DREAMS -- ONE OF THE LARGEST
MARKETS IN THE WORLD -- 360 MILLION CONSUMERS IN A $6
TRILLION ECONOMY.
- 18 -
MEXICO IS AMONG THE FASTEST GROWING NATIONAL
MARKETS FOR US EXPORTS -- THEY HAVE INCREASED BY 2/3
OVER THE PAST 3 YEARS -- AND OUR EXPORTS OF AUTO PARTS
AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT HAVE DOUBLED. IMAGINE
WHAT WILL HAPPEN UNDER NAFTA.
IT WILL CREATE THOUSANDS MORE JOBS ON BOTH SIDES OF
THE BORDER -- AND ALL OF US WILL BE WINNERS. III
IN THAT SPIRIT OF VITAL COOPERATION, I KNOW WE'LL
GROW TOGETHER.
- 19 -
BUT ALL COMMUNITIES WITHIN THESE UNITED STATES NEED TO
PAUSE RIGHT NOW, IN THE WAKE OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS IN
Los ANGELES.
WE MUST RE-THINK AND RE-AFFIRM THE BONDS THAT KNIT
ALL NATIONALITIES TOGETHER. THE VIOLENCE BROUGHT MUCH
SUFFERING TO THE Los ANGELES HISPANIC COMMUNITY. I AM
CERTAIN MANY OF YOU SHARED IN THEIR PAIN.
- 20 -
AND EVEN AS MY HEART TOO GOES OUT TO THEM, I FOUND IN
THE MIDST OF THE DEVASTATION, THERE WERE SIGNS OF
PROMISE -- NEIGHBOR HELPING NEIGHBOR, REGARDLESS OF
RACE.
CONVERGING IN Los ANGELES WERE THREE FUNDAMENTAL
ISSUES OF A CIVILIZED SOCIETY -- JUSTICE, ORDER AND
TOLERANCE. THESE MUST REMAIN OUR GOALS AS WE MEND THE
WOUNDS OF Los ANGELES.
- 21 -
FROM NEW YORK TO SAN ANTONIO To SAN JOSE, WE MUST
REDOUBLE OUR EFFORTS TO BUILD ON OUR STRENGTHS -- THE
SAME STRENGTHS OF CHARACTER AT THE HEART OF THE
HISPANIC COMMUNITY. III
MY FRIENDS, I LOOK FORWARD TO SPENDING FUTURE CINCO
DE MAYO DAYS WITH YOU -- I LOVED THE MARIACHI MUSIC,
AND I CAN'T WAIT TO HEAR IT AGAIN.
- 22 -
THANKS AGAIN FOR INCLUDING ME IN YOUR DAY -- HERE'S
SOMETHING MY 8-YEAR-OLD GRANDSON JEBBY TAUGHT ME TO SAY
-- "VAYAN CON DIOS!"
# # # # #
Document No. 325525ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/4/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
---
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
TUESDAY, MAY 5 - 2:00 p.m.
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
\
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
<
SCOWCROFT
>
MOORE
\
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
\
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
A
HOLIDAY
>
KAUFMAN
MCGROARTY
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
02 MAY 4 P5: 33
MAY 4, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
a
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE
OH
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED REMARKS FOR THE CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, May 5, 1992 at 2:00 p.m. you will address
participants at the Mexican Cultural Institute in celebration of
Cinco de Mayo ceremonies. The audience of approximately 150
people comprise Hispanic business and community leaders and
business executives from The Business Roundtable who support
NAFTA.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (approximately 8 minutes / cards) discuss the
background of Cinco de Mayo, its significance to the Mexican
community, and its emphasis on faith, family and freedom. Your
remarks include reference to "The Liberators of the American
Continent" mural; this mural emphasizes the abiding friendship
the United States has with Mexico, and how crucial the North
American Free Trade Agreement is to the economies of both
countries.
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 4, 1992 5 p.m.
CINCO Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
I want to congratulate President Salinas for preserving this
remarkable historical landmark; and for creating this Institute
to strengthen the ties of friendship between our nations. And
most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very special
day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500 years of
Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara,
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive: our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are Hispan-
ic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual heritage into
our family. I was so proud when Noelle and her mariachi group
sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo: that long-ago May 5th
when General Zaragoza and his outnumbered troops stood up to the
empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts. But what's most important
is the spirit of that day: the spirit of those few poorly-armed
men who turned the battle into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo
is a symbol of the struggle for self-determination against
astounding odds. It's the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable
2
determination to fight for their own destiny. It's a day like
the downing of the Berlin Wall; the vote against apartheid; the
defeat of Iraq's aggression -- events that transform our world
and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote that this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation
for the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A
middle school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de
Mayo is the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
Cinco de Mayo shows we all have debts to our ancestors who
took risks and made sacrifices for us: whether on the battlefield
or the farm field. We must honor these men and women who ached
to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life; who sacri-
ficed all they had in order to guarantee opportunity, freedom and
hope for their children and their children's children. One essay
winner wrote: "Celebrating the deeds of our ancestors helps us
keep in touch with our history; and reminds us of past suffering
and hardship that brought about the comfort we have today."
3
Cinco de Mayo doesn't belong solely to another land: it's a
celebration of ideals that know no border. Today we rejoice that
the men and women who came to this country from across the world
brought their finest strengths, their rich culture, their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system; our legal system; our education
system; and our system of government. And we must expand world
trade. These are the keys to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader. The
deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I notice Benito Juarez watching us -- seeing him reminds me
of that great fresco I saw upstairs -- "The Liberators of the
American Continent." For those who haven't seen it, it's a symbol
of the friendship and union we share: it shows our great leaders,
and a picture of North America and Latin America holding hands.
This idealized portrait shows exactly what we're going to achieve
in trade -- because I am absolutely committed to signing a sound
North American Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. The
4
time of opportunity is now. I've told our, negotiators to acceler-
ate their work. I believe we can conclude a sound, sensible deal
before the election -- and I will sign it as soon as it's ready.
A great lesson of our age is that trade and enterprise can
build jobs and preserve freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher
standards of living for the peoples of our continent. It will
liberate our markets; and increase trade, investment, and jobs -
- yes, jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- one of the largest markets in the world, 360
million consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the
fastest growing national markets for US exports -- they have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of auto
parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine what
will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs on
both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together.
And all communities within this United States need to pause right
now, in the wake of the tragic events in Los Angeles. We need to
re-think and re-affirm the bonds that knit all nationalities
together. For even in the midst of the devastation, there were
signs of promise -- neighbor helping neighbor, regardless of
race. From New York to San Antonio to San Jose, we must redouble
our efforts to build on our strengths -- the same strengths of
character at the heart of the Hispanic community.
My friends, I look forward to spending future Cinco de Mayo
5
days with you -- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I
can't wait to hear them again. Thanks again for including me in
your day -- here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught
me to say: "Vaya con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#.
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN 5/4/92
Day
THE WHITE HOUSE
ok
*
WASHINGTON
MAY 4, 1992
02 MAY tiny 4 P5: 33
+
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
ag
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE
OH
changes add
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED REMARKS FOR THE CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, May 5, 1992 at 2:00 p.m. you will address
participants at the Mexican Cultural Institute in celebration of
Cinco de Mayo ceremonies. The audience of approximately 150
people comprise Hispanic business and community leaders and
business executives from The Business Roundtable who support
NAFTA.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (approximately 8 minutes / cards) discuss the
background of Cinco de Mayo, its significance to the Mexican
community, and its emphasis on faith, family and freedom. Your
remarks include reference to "The Liberators of the American
Continent" mural; this mural emphasizes the abiding friendship
the United States has with Mexico, and how crucial the North
American Free Trade Agreement is to the economies of both
countries.
we need a zentruce
Relations between US - Mexica
are a) resportant
b) Neven been better
I sale great poode in that
I commend Salivas for that
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 4, 1992 5 p.m.
CINCO Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
I want to congratulate President Salinas for preserving this
remarkable historical landmark; and for creating this Institute
to strengthen the ties of friendship between our nations. And
most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very special
day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500 years of
Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara,
first
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
3
alive: our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are Hispan-
ic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual heritage into
our family. I was so proud when Noelle and her mariachi group
sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo: that long-ago May 5th
when General Zaragoza and his outnumbered troops stood up to the
empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts. But what's most important
is the spirit of that day: the spirit of those few poorly-armed
men who turned the battle into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo
is a symbol of the struggle for self-determination against
astounding odds. It's the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable
2
determination to fight for their own destiny. It's a day like
the downing of the Berlin Wall; the vote against apartheid; the
defeat of Iraq's aggression -- events that transform our world
and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote that this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation
for the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots.' A
middle school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de
Mayo is the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
Cinco de Mayo shows we all have debts to our ancestors who
took risks and made sacrifices for us: whether on the battlefield
or the farm field. We must honor these men and women who ached
to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life; who sacri-
ficed all they had in order to guarantee opportunity, freedom and
hope for their children and their children's children. One essay
winner wrote: "Celebrating the deeds of our ancestors helps us
keep in touch with our history; and reminds us of past suffering
and hardship that brought about the comfort we have today."
3
Cinco de Mayo doesn't belong solely to another land: it's a
celebration of ideals that know no border. Today we rejoice that
the men and women who came to this country from across the world
brought their finest strengths, their rich culture, their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system; our legal system; our education
system; and our system of government. And we must expand world
trade. These are the keys to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader. The
deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I notice Benito Juarez watching us -- seeing him reminds me
of that great fresco I saw upstairs -- "The Liberators of the
American Continent." For those who haven't seen it, it's a symbol
of the friendship and union we share: it shows our great leaders,
and a picture of North America and Latin America holding hands.
This idealized portrait shows exactly what we're going to achieve
in trade --- because I am absolutely committed to signing a sound
North American Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. The
4
time of opportunity is now. I've told our negotiators to acceler-
ate their work. I believe we can conclude a sound, sensible deal
before the election -- and I will sign it as soon as it's ready.
A great lesson of our age is that trade and enterprise can
build jobs and preserve freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher
standards of living for the peoples of our continent. It will
liberate our markets; and increase trade, investment, and jobs -
- yes, jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- one of the largest markets in the world, 360
million consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the
fastest growing national markets for US exports -- they have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of auto
parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine what
will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs on
both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together.
And all communities within this United States need to pause right
now, in the wake of the tragic events in Los Angeles. We need to
re-think and re-affirm the bonds that knit all nationalities
together, For even in the midst of the devastation, there were
signs of promise -- neighbor helping neighbor, regardless of
race. From New York to San Antonio to San Jose, we must redouble
our efforts to build on our strengths -- the same strengths of
character at the heart of the Hispanic community.
My friends, I look forward to spending future Cinco de Mayo
5
days with you -- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I
can't wait to hear them again. Thanks again for including me in
your day -- here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught
me to say: "Vaya con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
MAY 4, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
DD
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE
OH
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED REMARKS FOR THE CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, May 5, 1992 at 2:00 p.m. you will address
participants at the Mexican Cultural Institute in celebration of
Cinco de Mayo ceremonies. The audience of approximately 150
people comprise Hispanic business and community leaders and
business executives from The Business Roundtable who support
NAFTA.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (approximately 8 minutes / cards) discuss the
background of Cinco de Mayo, its significance to the Mexican
community, and its emphasis on faith, family and freedom. Your
remarks include reference to "The Liberators of the American
Continent" mural; this mural emphasizes the abiding friendship
the United States has with Mexico, and how crucial the North
American Free Trade Agreement is to the economies of both
countries.
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 4, 1992 5 p.m.
CINCO Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
I want to congratulate President Salinas for preserving this
remarkable historical landmark; and for creating this Institute
to strengthen the ties of friendship between our nations. And
most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very special
day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500 years of
Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara,
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive: our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are Hispan-
ic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual heritage into
our family. I was so proud when Noelle and her mariachi group
sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo: that long-ago May 5th
when General Zaragoza and his outnumbered troops stood up to the
empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts. But what's most important
is the spirit of that day: the spirit of those few poorly-armed
men who turned the battle into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo
is a symbol of the struggle for self-determination against
astounding odds. It's the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable
2
determination to fight for their own destiny. It's a day like
the downing of the Berlin Wall; the vote against apartheid; the
defeat of Iraq's aggression -- events that transform our world
and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote that this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation
for the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A
middle school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de
Mayo is the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
Cinco de Mayo shows we all have debts to our ancestors who
took risks and made sacrifices for us: whether on the battlefield
or the farm field. We must honor these men and women who ached
to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life; who sacri-
ficed all they had in order to guarantee opportunity, freedom and
hope for their children and their children's children. One essay
winner wrote: "Celebrating the deeds of our ancestors helps us
keep in touch with our history; and reminds us of past suffering
and hardship that brought about the comfort we have today."
3
Cinco de Mayo doesn't belong solely to another land: it's a
celebration of ideals that know no border. Today we rejoice that
the men and women who came to this country from across the world
brought their finest strengths, their rich culture, their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system; our legal system; our education
system; and our system of government. And we must expand world
trade. These are the keys to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader. The
deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I notice Benito Juarez watching us -- seeing him reminds me
of that great fresco I saw upstairs -- "The Liberators of the
American Continent." For those who haven't seen it, it's a symbol
of the friendship and union we share: it shows our great leaders,
and a picture of North America and Latin America holding hands.
This idealized portrait shows exactly what we're going to achieve
in trade -- because I am absolutely committed to signing a sound
North American Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. The
4
time of opportunity is now. I've told our negotiators to acceler-
ate their work. I believe we can conclude a sound, sensible deal
before the election -- and I will sign it as soon as it's ready.
A great lesson of our age is that trade and enterprise can
build jobs and preserve freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher
standards of living for the peoples of our continent. It will
liberate our markets; and increase trade, investment, and jobs -
- yes, jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- one of the largest markets in the world, 360
million consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the
fastest growing national markets for US exports -- they have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of auto
parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine what
will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs on
both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together.
And all communities within this United States need to pause right
now, in the wake of the tragic events in Los Angeles. We need to
re-think and re-affirm the bonds that knit all nationalities
together. For even in the midst of the devastation, there were
signs of promise -- neighbor helping neighbor, regardless of
race. From New York to San Antonio to San Jose, we must redouble
our efforts to build on our strengths -- the same strengths of
character at the heart of the Hispanic community.
My friends, I look forward to spending future Cinco de Mayo
5
days with you -- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I
can't wait to hear them again. Thanks again for including me in
your day -- here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught
me to say: "Vaya con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
MAY 4, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
a
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE
OH
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED REMARKS FOR THE CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, May 5, 1992 at 2:00 p.m. you will address
participants at the Mexican Cultural Institute in celebration of
Cinco de Mayo ceremonies. The audience of approximately 150
people comprise Hispanic business and community leaders and
business executives from The Business Roundtable who support
NAFTA.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (approximately 8 minutes / cards) discuss the
background of Cinco de Mayo, its significance to the Mexican
community, and its emphasis on faith, family and freedom. Your
remarks include reference to "The Liberators of the American
Continent" mural; this mural emphasizes the abiding friendship
the United States has with Mexico, and how crucial the North
American Free Trade Agreement is to the economies of both
countries.
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 4, 1992 5 p.m.
CINCO Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
I want to congratulate President Salinas for preserving this
remarkable historical landmark; and for creating this Institute
to strengthen the ties of friendship between our nations. And
most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very special
day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500 years of
Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara,
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive: our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are Hispan-
ic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual heritage into
our family. I was so proud when Noelle and her mariachi group
sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo: that long-ago May 5th
when General Zaragoza and his outnumbered troops stood up to the
empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts. But what's most important
is the spirit of that day: the spirit of those few poorly-armed
men who turned the battle into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo
is a symbol of the struggle for self-determination against
astounding odds. It's the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable
2
determination to fight for their own destiny. It's a day like
the downing of the Berlin Wall; the vote against apartheid; the
defeat of Iraq's aggression -- events that transform our world
and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote that this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation
for the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A
middle school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de
Mayo is the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
Cinco de Mayo shows we all have debts to our ancestors who
took risks and made sacrifices for us: whether on the battlefield
or the farm field. We must honor these men and women who ached
to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life; who sacri-
ficed all they had in order to guarantee opportunity, freedom and
hope for their children and their children's children. One essay
winner wrote: "Celebrating the deeds of our ancestors helps us
keep in touch with our history; and reminds us of past suffering
and hardship that brought about the comfort we have today."
3
Cinco de Mayo doesn't belong solely to another land: it's a
celebration of ideals that know no border. Today we rejoice that
the men and women who came to this country from across the world
brought their finest strengths, their rich culture, their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system; our legal system; our education
system; and our system of government. And we must expand world
trade. These are the keys to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader. The
deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I notice Benito Juarez watching us -- seeing him reminds me
of that great fresco I saw upstairs -- "The Liberators of the
American Continent." For those who haven't seen it, it's a symbol
of the friendship and union we share: it shows our great leaders,
and a picture of North America and Latin America holding hands.
This idealized portrait shows exactly what we're going to achieve
in trade -- because I am absolutely committed to signing a sound
North American Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. The
4
time of opportunity is now. I've told our negotiators to acceler-
ate their work. I believe we can conclude a sound, sensible deal
before the election -- and I will sign it as soon as it's ready.
A great lesson of our age is that trade and enterprise can
build jobs and preserve freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher
standards of living for the peoples of our continent. It will
liberate our markets; and increase trade, investment, and jobs -
- yes, jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- one of the largest markets in the world, 360
million consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the
fastest growing national markets for US exports -- they have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of auto
parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine what
will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs on
both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together.
And all communities within this United States need to pause right
now, in the wake of the tragic events in Los Angeles. We need to
re-think and re-affirm the bonds that knit all nationalities
together. For even in the midst of the devastation, there were
signs of promise -- neighbor helping neighbor, regardless of
race. From New York to San Antonio to San Jose, we must redouble
our efforts to build on our strengths -- the same strengths of
character at the heart of the Hispanic community.
My friends, I look forward to spending future Cinco de Mayo
5
days with you -- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I
can't wait to hear them again. Thanks again for including me in
your day -- here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught
me to say: "Vaya con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#
2
determination to fight for their own destiny. It's a day like
the downing of the Berlin Wall; the vote against apartheid; the
defeat of Iraq's aggression -- events that transform our world
and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote that this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation
for the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A
middle school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de
Mayo is the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
Cinco de Mayo shows we all have debts to our ancestors who
took risks and made sacrifices for us: whether on the battlefield
or the farm field. We must honor these men and women who ached
to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life; who sacri-
ficed all they had in order to guarantee opportunity, freedom and
hope for their children and their children's children. One essay
winner wrote: "Celebrating the deeds of our ancestors helps us
keep in touch with our history; and reminds us of past suffering
and hardship that brought about the comfort we have today."
3
Cinco de Mayo doesn't belong solely to another land: it's a
celebration of ideals that know no border. Today we rejoice that
the men and women who came to this country from across the world
brought their finest strengths, their rich culture, their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system; our legal system; our education
system; and our system of government. And we must expand world
trade. These are the keys to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader. The
deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I notice Benito Juarez watching us -- seeing him reminds me
of that great fresco I saw upstairs -- "The Liberators of the
American Continent." For those who haven't seen it, it's a symbol
of the friendship and union we share: it shows our great leaders,
and a picture of North America and Latin America holding hands.
This idealized portrait shows exactly what we're going to achieve
in trade -- because I am absolutely committed to signing a sound
North American Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. The
4
time of opportunity is now. I've told our negotiators to acceler-
ate their work. I believe we can conclude a sound, sensible deal
before the election -- and I will sign it as soon as it's ready.
A great lesson of our age is that trade and enterprise can
build jobs and preserve freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher
standards of living for the peoples of our continent. It will
liberate our markets; and increase trade, investment, and jobs -
- yes, jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- one of the largest markets in the world, 360
million consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the
fastest growing national markets for US exports -- they have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of auto
parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine what
will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs on
both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together.
And all communities within this United States need to pause right
now, in the wake of the tragic events in Los Angeles. We need to
re-think and re-affirm the bonds that knit all nationalities
together. For even in the midst of the devastation, there were
signs of promise -- neighbor helping neighbor, regardless of
race. From New York to San Antonio to San Jose, we must redouble
our efforts to build on our strengths -- the same strengths of
character at the heart of the Hispanic community.
My friends, I look forward to spending future Cinco de Mayo
5
days with you -- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I
can't wait to hear them again. Thanks again for including me in
your day -- here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught
me to say: "Vaya con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
MAY 4, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
80
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE
BH
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED REMARKS FOR THE CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, May 5, 1992 at 2:00 p.m. you will address
participants at the Mexican Cultural Institute in celebration of
Cinco de Mayo ceremonies. The audience of approximately 150
people comprise Hispanic business and community leaders and
business executives from The Business Roundtable who support
NAFTA.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (approximately 8 minutes / cards) discuss the
background of Cinco de Mayo, its significance to the Mexican
community, and its emphasis on faith, family and freedom. Your
remarks include reference to "The Liberators of the American
Continent" mural; this mural emphasizes the abiding friendship
the United States has with Mexico, and how crucial the North
American Free Trade Agreement is to the economies of both
countries.
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 4, 1992 5 p.m.
CINCO Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
I want to congratulate President Salinas for preserving this
remarkable historical landmark; and for creating this Institute
to strengthen the ties of friendship between our nations. And
most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very special
day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500 years of
Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara,
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive: our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are Hispan-
ic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual heritage into
our family. I was so proud when Noelle and her mariachi group
sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo: that long-ago May 5th
when General Zaragoza and his outnumbered troops stood up to the
empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts. But what's most important
is the spirit of that day: the spirit of those few poorly-armed
men who turned the battle into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo
is a symbol of the struggle for self-determination against
astounding odds. It's the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable
2
determination to fight for their own destiny. It's a day like
the downing of the Berlin Wall; the vote against apartheid; the
defeat of Iraq's aggression -- events that transform our world
and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote that this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation
for the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A
middle school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de
Mayo is the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
Cinco de Mayo shows we all have debts to our ancestors who
took risks and made sacrifices for us: whether on the battlefield
or the farm field. We must honor these men and women who ached
to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life; who sacri-
ficed all they had in order to guarantee opportunity, freedom and
hope for their children and their children's children. One essay
winner wrote: "Celebrating the deeds of our ancestors helps us
keep in touch with our history; and reminds us of past suffering
and hardship that brought about the comfort we have today."
3
Cinco de Mayo doesn't belong solely to another land: it's a
celebration of ideals that know no border. Today we rejoice that
the men and women who came to this country from across the world
brought their finest strengths, their rich culture, their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system; our legal system; our education
system; and our system of government. And we must expand world
trade. These are the keys to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader. The
deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I notice Benito Juarez watching us -- seeing him reminds me
of that great fresco I saw upstairs -- "The Liberators of the
American Continent." For those who haven't seen it, it's a symbol
of the friendship and union we share: it shows our great leaders,
and a picture of North America and Latin America holding hands.
This idealized portrait shows exactly what we're going to achieve
in trade -- because I am absolutely committed to signing a sound
North American Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. The
4
time of opportunity is now. I've told our negotiators to acceler-
ate their work. I believe we can conclude a sound, sensible deal
before the election -- and I will sign it as soon as it's ready.
A great lesson of our age is that trade and enterprise can
build jobs and preserve freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher
standards of living for the peoples of our continent. It will
liberate our markets; and increase trade, investment, and jobs -
- yes, jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- one of the largest markets in the world, 360
million consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the
fastest growing national markets for US exports -- they have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of auto
parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine what
will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs on
both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together.
And all communities within this United States need to pause right
now, in the wake of the tragic events in Los Angeles. We need to
re-think and re-affirm the bonds that knit all nationalities
together. For even in the midst of the devastation, there were
signs of promise -- neighbor helping neighbor, regardless of
race. From New York to San Antonio to San Jose, we must redouble
our efforts to build on our strengths -- the same strengths of
character at the heart of the Hispanic community.
My friends, I look forward to spending future Cinco de Mayo
5
days with you -- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I
can't wait to hear them again. Thanks again for including me in
your day -- here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught
me to say: "Vaya con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#.
Document No. 32552555
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: NOON MONDAY, 5/4/92
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
SUBJECT:
HISPANIC HERITAGE INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
bodley
Priceb912
N/C
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
<ROGICH
CALIO N/C
ROLLINS N/C
DEMAREST
SMITH N/L
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY N/C
FINDLAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
MCGROARTY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm 122,
Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN NOON MONDAY, MAY 4, with a copy to
this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
MASTER
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
02 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today. "
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
Orderline jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
one
stuff of dreams -- the largest markets in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
ONLY
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
at
"Vayan con Dios!"
check This.
#####
3394
Document No. 32552555
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: NOON MONDAY, 5/4/92
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
SUBJECT:
HISPANIC HERITAGE INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm 122,
Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN NOON MONDAY, MAY 4, with a copy to
this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
May 4, 1992
TO: DAN MCGROARTY
The NSC clears without changes.
from Brent Scowcroft
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
CC: Philip D. Brady
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
02 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today. "
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- the largest market in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#
Document No. 32552555
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: NOON MONDAY, 5/4/92
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
SUBJECT:
HISPANIC HERITAGE INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITM
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty; Rm 122,
Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN NOON MONDAY, MAY 4, with a copy to
this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Pines
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
2 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today."
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- the largest market in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 11:35AM ;
OPD->
2024566218:# 1
Document No. 32552555
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: NOON MONDAY, 5/4/92
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
SUBJECT:
HISPANIC HERITAGE INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm 122,
Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN NOON MONDAY, MAY 4, with a copy to
this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See comments. Thanks.
Paul PK KorConta
05/04
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 :11:36AM ;
OPD->
2024566218:# 2
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
02 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts - but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 11:36AM ;
OPD->
2024566218;# 3
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us - whether on the
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 :11:37AM ;
OPD->
2024566218;# 4
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today."
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share SQ much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 ;11:37AM ;
OPD->
2024566218:# 5
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and --
jobs -- Nin Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market oreat made up of these nations would be the
one
stuff of dreams --the largest market in the world, 360 million
(USTR)
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#
Bob Simon
Memorandum for Speechwriting Staff
From:
Dan McGroarty
Regarding:
Cinco de Mayo
Please return your comments to
Room 122 by:
11:00 AM
Today's Date: MAY 4 1992
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today."
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- the largest market in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- - I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#
This is good, but d think about a page
too long. It should also have something about
tolerance + people of all heritages coming to U.S.
+
living in harmony - m in other words -
something to heal after L.A. niots.
OMB Last page
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today."
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- the largest market in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#
Request LA insert
from Rollins
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression --- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today."
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- the largest market in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
#
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 5- 4-92 ; 7:41AM ;
4562983-
2024566218:# 2
Document No. 32552555
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: NOON MONDAY, 5/4/92
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
SUBJECT:
HISPANIC HERITAGE INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm 122,
Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN NOON MONDAY, MAY 4, with a copy to
this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
DAN. FROM.
SATIREE
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 ; 7:41AM ;
4562983-
2024566218:# 3
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowits)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
2 PRESIDENTIAL
CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 ; 7:41AM ;
4562983-
2024566218:# 4
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 ; 7:42AM ;
4562983-
2024566218:# 5
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today."
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 4-92 ; 7:42AM ;
4562983->
2024566218;# 6
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- the largest market in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports - our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 4, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN McGROARTY
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Cinco De Mayo Ceremonies
We have reviewed the attached presidential remarks and
have noted a few suggested changes on the draft.
If you have any questions or we can be of further
assistance, please let us know.
Dan-
Call me if you have any problems
with these changed Thanks.
Roge
CC: Phillip D. Brady
Document No. 32552555
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
RAE
DATE: 5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: NOON MONDAY, 5/4/92
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
SUBJECT:
HISPANIC HERITAGE INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm 122,
Ext. 2930, NO LATER THAN NOON MONDAY, MAY 4, with a copy to
this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
2 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
is
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other. ]
PERFECT.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
TWO PASSAGES FROM AMONG THE ENTRIES.
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today."
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
THESE ARE
expand world trade. -- this is the key/ to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely 2 committed to signing a sound North American
DISTINGUES AND MITED THEMMITTED STNOVISH NOT TO BETWEEN WE TO.
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
jobs I in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the 2
stuff CREATE of dreams the largest market in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
OF
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#####
(Hinchliffe/Nix/Gershowitz)
May 1, 1992 4 p.m.
CINCO Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MAY 5, 1992
Thank you for that warm welcome into this beautiful place.
[ANECDOTE ABOUT HISTORY OF BUILDING] [ACKNOWLEDGMENTS]
And most of all, thank you for letting me share in this very
special day -- made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere.
This heritage is a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and
our kids and I were lucky enough to experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities, exploring
the ties between our countries -- ties of family, friendship,
faith. The Bushes are lucky to be able to keep that celebration
alive -- our daughter-in-law and some of our grandkids are
Hispanic-American, and they bring the wonder of this dual
heritage into our family. I was so proud when little Noelle and
her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Lady's luncheon during
our Inauguration.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo -- of that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his vastly outnumbered troops
stood up to the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts -- but
what's most important is the spirit of that day -- the spirit of
those few poorly-armed men who turned the anguish of their battle
into a glorious symbol. Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of the
struggle for self-determination against astounding odds. It's
the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable determination to fight
2
for their own destiny. It's a day like the downing of the Berlin
Wall, the vote against apartheid, the handshake between Arab and
Israeli, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- the events that
transform our world and the way we see each other.
It's also, of course, a national holiday -- a day of pride
in Mexican culture and heritage. The Los Angeles Unified School
District sponsors an annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I
want to share with you a couple of quotes. A senior high student
wrote this day "instilled within me pride and appreciation for
the beauty of my people and the richness of my roots." A middle
school student wrote: "The real significance of Cinco de Mayo is
the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their heritage."
That's a glorious thing to celebrate. When I think of the
Hispanic community the first words to come to mind are -- faith,
family, and freedom. These values have been interwoven into the
strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition for generations -
- and they're also the very values this nation was founded on.
That's why Cinco De Mayo should be a festival for all of us
-- a time to honor the ideals it represents. A time to assert
that the family structure -- so revered in the Hispanic culture -
- is important for everyone. And Cinco de Mayo is a time for all
Americans to join with our Hispanic-American brothers and
sisters, in pledging that we will not let our proud traditions
become only memories.
As Cinco de Mayo shows, we all have debts to our ancestors
who took risks and made sacrifices for us -- whether on the
3
battlefield or the farm field. We must honor these men and women
who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better life -
- who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee freedom,
opportunity and hope for their children and their children's
children. As one of the essay winners wrote: "Celebrating the
deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with our history -
- and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that brought
about the comfort we have today."
So we can think of Cinco de Mayo not as a celebration that
belongs solely to another land -- but as a celebration of ideals
that know no border. Today is a day to rejoice that the men and
women who came to this country from across the world brought
their finest strengths, their rich culture and their ethnic
tradition, and fit them into the vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future, to prepare the legacy
we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts we could
give them, the three most important are: jobs, family and peace.
The America we will leave them will be a better land and a
more just land, if we make progress in five key areas. We must
reform our health care system -- our legal system -- our
education system -- and our system of government. And we must
expand world trade -- this is the key to thriving in the future.
Mexico and the United States share so much. President
Carlos Salinas is a dear friend -- a bold and imaginative leader.
The deep and enduring relationship we're forging between our
countries is based on cooperation, mutual respect -- and open
4
trade. I will fight to tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North American
Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible. A great lesson of our
age is that trade and enterprise can build jobs and preserve
freedom. NAFTA will be the key to higher standards of living for
the peoples of our continent. I want it to liberate our markets
-- to increase the levels of trade, investment, and jobs -- yes,
jobs -- in Mexico, in Canada, and in the United States.
A free trade market made up of these nations would be the
stuff of dreams -- the largest market in the world, 360 million
consumers in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest
growing national markets for US exports -- our exports there have
increased by 2/3 over the past 3 years; and our exports of autos,
auto parts and telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine
what will happen under NAFTA. It will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. All of us will be winners.
In that spirit of vital cooperation, we'll grow together. I
look forward to celebrating future Cinco de Mayo days with you -
- I loved the mariachi band on the stairs, and I can't wait to
hear them again. Thanks again for including me in your day --
here's something my 8-year-old grandson Jebby taught me to say:
"Vayan con Dios!"
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
May 5, 1992
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT CINCO DE MAYO CEREMONIES
Mexican Cultural Institute
Washington, D.C.
2:17 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: If I might be informal, Gus, thank you
very much for the warm introduction and the warm welcome. And I just
can't tell you how pleased I am to be in this beautiful place. There
are many familiar faces out there -- so many members of both chambers
from Mexico -- we salute you and we welcome you all. I had a chance
to greet the members a second ago. Members of the Hispanic America
-- Mexican American business community, we're very pleased to have
you all here. I see Senator Gramm and Representative Colby and
Gilman and Talon, all here to salute this show of force and show of
friendship for the delegates from south of the Rio Grande.
The interparliamentary union, the Mexican-American
interparliamentary relationship is a good one, and I can tell some of
you older member of this delegation that I was a member of that
interparliamentary action back in 1968 and 1969 and 1970. So I
welcome you all once again.
I was pleased earlier to see Jose Nino and Raul
Yzaguirre, two American leaders who do so much for strong relations
between Mexico and the United States.
And, of course, I want to take this opportunity to
congratulate President Carlos Salinas for preserving this remarkable
historical landmark and for creating the institute to strengthen the
ties of friendship between our two nations.
Relations between the United States and Mexico are
tremendously important to both our countries -- and it's exciting to
note -- and I would note, and I'd say with some pride, that relations
between Mexico and the United States have never been better than they
are now.
And I take great pride in that, as I say, but I commend
especially Carlos Salinas for the role that he's played in
strengthening the special friendship that benefits both our peoples.
The Mexican President has done an awful lot to hold out his hand to
us, to emphasize the importance to Mexico of the U.S.-Mexican
relationship. And he's done a wonderful job.
I want to thank all of you for letting me share this
special day -- a day made even more meaningful because 1992 marks 500
years of Hispanic heritage in this hemisphere. And this heritage is
a wonderful, rich tapestry that Barbara and I -- that our kids,
Barbara and I, were lucky enough to first experience during our West
Texas years. I remember our Cinco de Mayo festivities out there,
exploring the ties between our countries, ties of family, friendship
and faith. So my exposure to Cinco de Mayo started in the year 1949
out in West Texas and it's been a part of us ever since.
The Bushes are very lucky to be able to keep that
celebration alive. Our daughter-in-law, as some of you know, was
MORE
- 2 -
from Mexico, now an American citizen, and we take great pride in
that. Three of our grandchildren are Hispanic American, and they
bring the wonder of this dual heritage into our family. I have only
one complaint with them -- all four of them; my daughter-in-law and
the three grandchildren -- none of them has been able to teach their
grandfather to speak Spanish. (Laughter.) When things calm down a
little, maybe I can make a little more headway.
I remember being so proud when Noelle, our granddaughter
and her mariachi group sang at Barbara's First Ladies luncheon during
our inauguration. I heard the mariachi group upstairs, and I'm kind
of glad there wasn't a comparison between Noelle's mariachi group and
this group of wonderful musicians that enlivened the festivities
here. (Laughter.) But I was delighted to hear the music today.
We all know the facts of Cinco de Mayo; that long-ago
May 5th when General Zaragoza and his outnumbered troops stood up to
the empire of Napoleon III. Stirring facts. But what's most
important is the spirit of that day, the spirit of those few poorly-
armed men who turned the battle into a glorious symbol. Cinco de
Mayo is a symbol of the struggle for self-determination against
astounding odds. And it's the symbol of a brave people's unbeatable
determination to fight for their own destiny.
It's a day like the downing of the Berlin Wall, the vote
against apartheid, the defeat of Iraq's aggression -- events that
transform our world and the way we see each other. It's also, of
course, a national holiday, a day of pride in Mexican culture, a day
of pride in Mexican heritage.
And the Los Angeles Unified School District sponsors an
annual Cinco de Mayo essay contest, and I just want to share with you
a couple of the quotes. A senior high school student wrote that this
day -- and here's the quote -- "instilled within me pride and
appreciation for the beauty of my people and the richness of my
roots." And a middle school student wrote, "The real significance of
Cinco de Mayo is the pride Mexicans everywhere have in their
heritage."
And that's a glorious thing to celebrate. And when I
think of the Hispanic community in our country, the first words to
come to mind are faith, family and freedom. These values have been
interwoven into the strong, bright fabric of the Hispanic tradition
for generations and they're also the very values that this nation was
founded on.
Cinco de Mayo shows that we all have debts to our
ancestors who took risks and made sacrifices for us, whether on the
battlefield or out in the farm field. And we must honor these men
and women who ached to pass on a richer life, a freer life, a better
life; who sacrificed all they had in order to guarantee opportunity,
freedom and hope for their children and their children's children.
One essay winner in this Los Angeles contest wrote,
"Celebrating the deeds of our ancestors helps us keep in touch with
our history and reminds us of past suffering and hardship that
brought about the comfort we have today." Cinco de Mayo -- it does
not belong solely to another land; it's a celebration of ideals that
know no border.
And today we rejoice at the men and women who came to
this country from across the world, brought their finest strengths,
their rich culture, their proudest tradition and sift them into the
vibrant mosaic that is America.
We must also look toward the future to prepare the
legacy we will leave our children. I believe of all the gifts that
we could give them, the three most important are jobs, family, and
MORE
- 3 -
peace. And the America we will leave to our country will be a better
land and more just land if we make progress here on five key areas.
I'm thinking of our health care system, our legal system, our
education system, our system of government and, of course, we must
expand world trade. And these are the keys to thriving in the
future.
And so much depends upon trade. Mexico and the United
States share a great deal. President Salinas, as I say, is a dear
friend. He also is a bold and imaginative leader, and the deep and
enduring relationship we're forging between our countries is based on
cooperation, mutual respect, and open trade. And I will fight to
tear down economic barriers with Mexico.
I notice the portrait of Juarez watching us. And seeing
him reminds me of that great fresco I saw upstairs, "The Liberators
of the American Continent." For those who haven't seen it, it's a
symbol of the friendship and union that we share. It shows the great
leaders of our lands and a picture of North America and Latin America
shaking hands.
This idealized portrait shows what we're going to
achieve in trade, because I am absolutely committed -- put the
politics aside -- I am absolutely committed to signing a sound North
American Free Trade Agreement just as soon as possible. (Applause.)
The time of opportunity is now. I've told our
negotiators to accelerate their work. I believe we can conclude a
sound and sensible deal before this United States election, and I
will sign it just as soon as it's ready.
A great lesson of our age is that trade and enterprise
can build jobs and certainly can preserve freedom. NAFTA, the North
American Free Trade Agreement, will be the key to higher standards of
living for the peoples of our continent. I hope it helps, and I'm
sure it will, the standard of living in Mexico. I know it will do
the same for the United States. And then I believe the benefits will
flow south where it will open the door for other such free trade
agreements.
It will liberate our markets and it will increase trade,
investment and jobs -- yes, jobs. In Mexico, in Canada, and right
here in the United States of America.
I must say, as I look over here I have a little guilt
complex because I see Bernie Aronson who is working so very hard and
in such effectiveness to bring forth a trade agreement, and he's done
a wonderful job in our relationship. Bernie, I should have mentioned
you earlier, but I'm just delighted you're here. (Applause.)
But as he knows and all of us, I think, know, a free
trade market made up of these three nations -- Mexico, Canada, and
the United States -- would be the stuff of dreams -- one of the
largest markets in the world; 360 million consumers in a $6 trillion
economy.
Now, Mexico is among the fastest-growing national
markets for U.S. exports, and they've increased by two-thirds just
over the past three years. And our exports of auto parts and
telecommunications equipment have doubled. Imagine what will happen
under a free trade agreement. And it will create thousands more jobs
on both sides of the border. And all of us will be winners.
And in that spirit of vital cooperation, I know that we
will grow together. But all communities within the United States
MORE
- 4 -
need to pause right now in the wake of tragic events in Los Angeles.
We must rethink and reaffirm the bonds that knit all nationalities
together.
The violence brought much suffering to the Los Angeles
Hispanic community. And I am certain that many of you, as did I,
shared in their pain. And even as my heart, too, goes out to them, I
found in the midst of the devastation, there were signs of promise --
neighbor helping neighbor, regardless of race or cultural background.
Converging in Los Angeles were three fundamental issues of a
civilized society -- justice, order and tolerance. And these must
remain our goals as we mend the wounds of Los Angeles.
From New York to San Antonio to as we mend the wounds of
Los Angeles.
From New York to San Antonio to San Jose, we must
redouble our efforts to build on our strengths -- the same strengths
of character that are at the heart of the Hispanic community here in
the United States and in Mexico as well.
My friends, I look forward to spending future Cinco de
Mayo days with you. I loved the music, as I said. I can't wait to
hear it again. And thank you very much, Gus, for including me in
this wonderful day. And here's something my eight-year-old grandson,
Jebby, did teach me -- "Vayan con Dios."
Thank you very, very much. (Applause.)
END
2:31 P.M. EDT
3
We can't achieve this breakthrough by equivocating between the
status quo protectionists and the movement for freedom and
change. Some suggest that we can hide in a cocoon of protection
and pretend still to benefit from the fresh air of competition.
Well, you and I know that is simply wrong-headed. Our economic
future must not depend on those who pay lip service to free
trade, but full service to powerful special interests. We can't
have it both ways. In our own War for Independence those who
took this kind of stand were known as the "Summer Soldiers."
They wanted the glory of the revolution without showing the
gumption to stand for freedom even in tough times. My stand is
clear: Open trade is vital to the United States, every bit as
vital as domestic reforms to renew our systems of education,
health care, government and administration of justice.
A free trade area comprising the United States, Mexico and Canada
would be the largest market in the world -- 360 million consumers
in a $6 trillion economy. Mexico is among the fastest growing
national markets for U.S. exports today. Over the last three
years alone, American merchandise exports to Mexico have
increased by two-thirds. Our exports of autos, auto parts, and
telecommunications equipment to Mexico have doubled. And while
members of this audience may be aware of this, I doubt it is
widely known in the United States that two-thirds of all imports
into Mexico come from the United States.
It's not just the border states that profit from this growth.
During my presidency, 45 of our 50 states have increased their
exports to Mexico. Our top 10 exporters to Mexico today include
Michigan, Illinois, New York, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Florida
and Ohio, as well as Texas, California and Arizona.
Trade with Mexico already supports hundreds of thousands of U.S.
jobs. Just as an example: Thousands of good jobs in Warren,
Ohio and Rochester, New York depend on sister plants in Mexico to
keep their products competitive. A North American Free Trade
Agreement would create thousands more. It would create
competitive efficiencies and economies of scale that will help
American companies compete in world markets.
Free trade with Canada and Mexico will make all of us winners in
economic endeavor, but our relationship goes well beyond trade.
We share borders that span the continent. We're linked by
centuries-old ties of family and culture. I share a warm
friendship with Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, whom I consult
frequently. I count President Carlos Salinas also as a dear
friend -- he and I have been promoting the "spirit of Houston"
ever since our summit meeting just after both of us were elected
in 1988. Both President Salinas and Prime Minister Mulroney are
bold and imaginative leaders, and I am committed to working with
them to forge enduring friendship among our countries, based on
open trade, cooperation and mutual respect.
Now you may have heard some suggest that politics will dictate
delaying the North American Free Trade Agreement until after the
election. Well, those voices are not speaking for me.; The time
of opportunity is now. I've instructed our negotiators to
accelerate their work. I believe we can conclude a sound,
sensible deal before the election, and I want to sign a good
agreement as soon as it's ready.
The North American Free Trade Agreement is only a beginning. Our
Enterprise for the Americas Initiative already has made
noteworthy progress to open markets, expand investment flows,
reduce official debt, and strengthen the environment throughout
the hemisphere.
- more -