Washington, D.C. - Today, the House Committee on Government Reform approved House Resolution 721 (H. Res. 721), legislation authored by Congresswoman Hilda L. Solis (CA-32), to support the goals and ideals of a Salvadoran-American Day (El Día del Salvadoreño). The only Member of Congress of Central American descent, Solis authored this legislation to recognize Salvadoran Americans for their hard work, dedication and contribution to the stability and well-being of the United States.

“I am pleased that the Government Reform Committee has recognized Salvadoran Americans for their economic and cultural contributions to the United States,” said Congresswoman Solis. “I hope that H. Res. 721 can move quickly to the floor in time for the August holidays celebrated throughout the Salvadoran community.”   

Currently, there are more than 900,000 Salvadoran Americans living in the United States, with the majority of them living in California, the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area and New York.  In the Los Angeles metropolitan area alone there are nearly 400,000 Salvadoran-Americans.

In California, El Día del Salvadoreño is celebrated among the Latino community.  This celebration of Salvadoran traditions dates back to 1525 when the city of Villa De San Salvador was founded.  August 6 also marks the date when Salvadorans around the United States celebrate “Fiestas Agostinas” (August Holidays). 

H. Con. Res. 721 may be considered by the full House of Representatives as early as July. This resolution already has 51 cosponsors, including 3 Republicans.