National Museum of the American Latino Commission

Latinos are an integral part of the history and culture of the United States.
Latinos have been present on the North American continent for more than five hundred years.

The influence of Latinos is spread throughout the entire country…
 
…and evident in every facet of our daily life.

All people of the United States contribute to the American identity. The illumination of the Latino story in America is a recognition not only of a culture that represents one of our country’s national assets, but of the complete—and compelling—history of America.

For the benefit of all the cultures that make up the American identity, a national effort is underway to study the creation of a National Museum of the American Latino, in Washington, D.C.

A museum that, on a national scale, will provide a focus on popular, historic and contemporary Latino contributions and creative expressions produced and originated in the United States and its territories.

In 2008, supported by both Democrats and Republicans, former President George W. Bush signed into law the establishment of a special commission to study the potential creation of a National Museum of the American Latino, and to create a report to Congress on this Museum’s merits. This law is being implemented by President Barack Obama. On behalf of President Obama, Secretary of the Department of the Interior, Ken Salazar is shepherding the Commission.

The President and bipartisan Congressional leaders selected the 23 members of the Commission.

Commission members are representatives from leading Latino communities who all share a deep commitment to their Congressional task.

Together, the Commissioners provide a broad perspective of the Latino experience in the United States, and represent diverse disciplines.

The Commission is responsible for providing a report to Congress on the viability of the Museum, incorporating the valuable feedback, opinions, ideas, and sentiments of the Latino community and general public collected at forums across the country.
So that a vital part of our nation’s heritage can be preserved and shared for the benefit of all those interested in the richness of the American experience.

Today, and until June 1st, 2010, the Commission is seeking your input…
…on the proposed museum’s development and design,
on how you think such a museum can advance Latino art, history, life, and culture,
and your thoughts about this possible museum and its setting in our nation’s Capitol,
 
its potential contributions,
 
its position among our nation’s treasury of museums…
 
…and its place in our great nation.
This forum is about a National Museum of the American Latino,
 
for the enjoyment and benefit of all Americans.
 
This forum is about US. We appreciate your participation by June 1st, 2010.
 
Share your views here today, online at americanlatinomuseum.gov or through our Facebook and Twitter accounts.
 
On behalf of the National Museum of the American Latino Commission, I’m Eva Longoria Parker. Thank you.