September 16th, 2026Sen. Heinrich Statement Commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month
WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated from September 15 through October 15. Heinrich is a cosponsor of a bipartisan resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month. “As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the remarkable contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to our country and our communities. From Senator Dennis Chaves to María Dolores Gonzales to Eva Enciñias, the story of New Mexico is infused with the resilience, connectedness, and brilliance of incredible Hispanic leaders. Hispanic heritage is also embedded in the fabric of our everyday lives — from our traditions, values, and the querencia that connects us to our lands to the food we eat, the art we create, and the collaborative ways we innovate. “Celebrating the richness of this cultural inheritance, in this moment, also must include standing up with Hispanic and Latino communities to protect their rights, dignity, and access to opportunities. Together, we can and must push back against the Trump administration as it continues trying to defund programs for bilingual students and Hispanic-owned small businesses, slashing healthcare and nutrition programs families rely on, and unlawfully targeting Hispanics and Latinos with out-of-control immigration enforcement tactics. “New Mexico families work hard, look out for one another, and build a better future for the next generation together. Resilience and tenacity are who we are. But every family deserves the opportunity to feel secure in their community, provide for the people they love, and build a future here at home. “This month and every month, I’ll continue working to protect the programs New Mexicans rely on, fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on programs that benefit Hispanic and Latino children and businesses, lift up the successes of Hispanic innovators and leaders, and push for the policies that give every family a fair shot at succeed.” ###
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WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement on the proposal from Sandia Pueblo to transfer 10,000 acres in the Sandias from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to the Pueblo of Sandia after meeting with the Pueblo’s Governor Stuart Paisano: “I have had the opportunity to meet with Sandia Pueblo leaders over the years and have seen firsthand the importance of these lands to the Pueblo. The federal government has a responsibility to respect Tribal sovereignty and self-determination and to honor the unique government-to-government relationship between the United States and Tribal Nations. That means listening to Tribal leaders, taking their perspectives seriously, and recognizing that Tribal Nations have a unique history, culture, and relationship to their homelands. “At the same time, I believe we have a responsibility to carefully consider the best path forward for the Sandia Mountains and the many other New Mexicans who cherish and responsibly use these lands. I strongly support strengthening the Pueblo’s co-stewardship with the U.S. Forest Service. But what I do not support is transferring title away from the Forest Service or eliminating this area’s wilderness protections. “As discussions continue to evolve, I will keep listening to the Pueblo, all the New Mexicans who cherish these mountains, and everyone who shares the common goal of protecting these treasured lands for future generations.” ###
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