Secretary Salazar Applauds Legislation Supporting Creation of American Latino Museum on the National Mall

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today applauded the introduction of bipartisan, bicameral legislation to establish the Smithsonian American Latino Museum, as recommended by the National Museum of the American Latino (NMAL) Commission. The legislation also designates the museum's location within the Smithsonian's Art and Industries building on the National Mall.

“The story of the American Latino is an integral part of our national narrative and it is only fitting that this story be reflected in a museum that is located on our nation's front yard,” said Secretary Salazar. “Thanks to the Commission's thorough report and the tremendous bipartisan support behind this project as demonstrated by today's bill, we are making progress in commemorating the countless contributions of Latinos to our country.”

Under the leadership of Chairman Henry R. Muñoz III, the congressionally-established and presidentially-appointed NMAL Commission was tasked to study the potential of a national museum dedicated to the art, culture, and history of the Latino Community in the United States. The commission delivered its final report to President Obama and Congressional leaders in May.

Today's bipartisan legislation was introduced by U.S. Senators Robert Menendez, Harry Reid, Marco Rubio, and U.S. Representatives Xavier Becerra and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen.

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