(WASHINGTON, DC – SEPT. 30, 2003)  -- The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) honored Raul Yzaguirre, president and founder of the National Council of La Raza, and Bill Richardson, Governor of New Mexico, with CHCI’s Medallions of Excellence for community service and leadership.  The awards were presented at the Institute’s 26^th Annual Gala held at the MCI Center.  International superstar Ricky Martin was presented with the first Chairman’s Humanitarian Award for his global philanthropy. 

Yzaguirre gave a riveting speech on the emergence of Hispanics in the United States and the community’s role in defining a new America.  

“I believe that we seek power to help this nation fulfill its destiny; to live up to its ideals and to go beyond the sometimes narrow definition of what it means to be an American,” Yzaguirre said. “I believe that we as Latinos are not only about demanding our rights, but also about fully preparing to shoulder our responsibilities.”   

Governor Bill Richardson, who served as CHCI Chairman in 1985 and is currently the only Hispanic governor in the nation, spoke of the tremendous growth the CHCI gala has experienced. 

“Today, it is a grand honor to return to my true home, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus [Institute],” said Governor Richardson. “I remember a time when we used to beg people to attend this event. Now, we can’t keep you away and I say it with a matter of pride.”

Ricky Martin raised his Chairman’s Humanitarian Award in the air after CHCI Chairman, Rep. Ciro Rodriguez, presented it to him. His recently founded charity, People for Children, helps rehabilitate disabled children and fights against child abuse and exploitation. 

“This really means a lot to me,” said Martin. “My music is the key that will open the door, allowing me to get closer to people [and] to people’s hearts.”

###