The Honorable Ciro Rodriguez's Speech before the Democratic National Convention, Wednesday, July 28, 2004

BOSTON, July 28 /PRNewswire/ -- The following is a transcript of a speech by the Honorable Ciro Rodriguez before the Democratic National Convention, Wednesday, July 28, 2004:

Buenas tardes, Democratas.  Buenas tardes, America.  Estamos aqui unidos con senador Kerry y senador Edwards para ganar en noviembre.

Fellow delegates, good afternoon! We come from all walks of life.  Whether we are Latino or Asian, African-American or Anglo, we are all Democrats committed to putting our country back on the right path.

When we look through the prism of American society, we see our greatness reflected in our diversity.  We are Americans bound together by shared beliefs.

We are joined by our common quest for a brighter future.  But we must harness the potential of our diversity if we are to become strong again.

With President Kerry we can and will make America stronger. Kerry and Edwards know that a strong America must have a military that is the best in the world. Kerry and Edwards know that a strong America helps all students graduate from high school and makes higher education truly affordable.

Kerry and Edwards know that a strong America provides our children with access to quality health care and lower health care prices.

Kerry and Edwards know that a strong America has an economy that supports jobs here at home so we have the tools to advance and meet the challenges ahead.  Kerry and Edwards know a strong America shows respect to its veterans and war heroes.

We need new leadership in the White House to make America strong again. In South Texas, I have seen the hopes and fears in the faces of young parents, worried about their children's future.

From the border counties of Texas to San Antonio, I have heard the voices crying out for change, seeking opportunities to succeed.

We must build a stronger America.

We must invest in the future.  We must invest in ourselves, safe schools, clean air and water, good roads, energy independence.

Together, as Democrats, let's make America strong again.

We have the ticket for success.  John Kerry and John Edwards will lead America so that we can stand strong again at home and abroad.

Juntos, podemos ganar. Unidos con John Kerry.

Source: Democratic National Convention Committee

CONTACT:  Peggy Wilhide of the Democratic National Convention Committee,
+1-617-366-3100

Web site:  http://www.dems2004.org/