Assemblymember Juan Carrillo Leads Adoption of HR 16 on Assembly Floor, Honoring Cinco de Mayo and Latino Resilience

SACRAMENTO, CA – Today, the California State Assembly adopted House Resolution 16 (HR 16), honoring the cultural legacy, resilience, and vital contributions of the Latino community in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. The resolution was presented by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D–Palmdale), Vice Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus.

“Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of resistance and triumph against injustice,” said Assemblymember Carrillo. “Today’s resolution is a reminder of our history, our strength, and our unity across communities.”

The resolution was brought forward with strong support from the California Latino Legislative Caucus, highlighting the Caucus’ commitment to honoring Latino history and recognizing the continued fight for equity.

During floor remarks, members from several legislative caucuses rose to express their strong support for HR 16:

• Assemblymember Blanca Rubio, on behalf of the Women’s Caucus, emphasized the power and presence of Latinas throughout California’s history and future.
• Assemblymember Jose Luis Solache, speaking on behalf of the LGBTQ+ Caucus, affirmed support for HR 16 and uplifted the importance of visibility and unity within the LGBTQ+ community.
• Assemblymember Marc Berman, representing the Jewish Caucus, expressed deep solidarity, reflecting on “shared values and shared DNA” between the Jewish and Latino communities. He reaffirmed the Jewish community’s commitment to standing against fear and standing with the Latino community.
• Assemblymember Sade Elhawary, on behalf of the Black Caucus, powerfully stated that Black and Brown communities are “deeply connected,” invoking the Chicano movement and the history of resistance that continues today. She reminded colleagues that “we are here because of Black and Brown people who never stopped believing.”
• Assemblymember Jessica Colazo, representing the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Caucus, voiced strong support for HR 16, recognizing the Latino community’s contributions and celebrating California’s strength through diversity.

With bipartisan and cross-caucus support, HR 16 was adopted, reinforcing the Assembly’s collective commitment to honoring Latino history and uplifting communities working toward justice and equity.

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the historic victory of Mexican forces over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862 a triumph that symbolizes the resilience and determination of the Mexican people in the face of adversity. The observance serves as a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the cultural heritage of the Latino community, while also reflecting on the deep historical ties between Mexico and the United States.

This resolution affirms the Legislature’s commitment to fostering mutual respect, shared values, and unity among all Californians. As Benito Juárez once said, “El respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz” the respect for the rights of others is peace.

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