Hi there,

Our state is among the most culturally rich in our nation -- made stronger, better, and more prosperous by the vast contributions of Hispanic and Latino people.

This year's celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month is more important than ever. As division and hate weave through our national discourse, Texas can lead by example. We are proof that a strong, multicultural community guarantees a competitive and vibrant state.

When MJ talks about her time serving in the Air Force, she's often talking about those who she served with. How they came together from different backgrounds -- be it ethnicity, religion, economic status, what have you -- to complete the mission before them. In her words: "We knew that unity, teamwork, and a shared mission was the only way to succeed."

So when MJ hears leaders espousing rhetoric that dehumanizes Latino people and seeks to drive a wedge between "us" and "them," it makes her angry. And to make it worse, our Texas Senator John Cornyn not only refuses to stand up against it but oftentimes espouses it himself. It's despicable.

And Texans bore the consequences of that bigotry in the violence of El Paso. As Hispanic Heritage Month begins, we're just starting to rebuild from an attack on our Latino community that was fueled by white supremacist ideology. Now, a new Univision poll shows 85% of Texas Latinos are worried that there will be yet another mass shooting targeting people of color.

MJ took an oath to protect against threats both foreign and domestic, and she lives that oath today. That's why she believes we have to mobilize now against the epidemic of white supremacy here at home. That's why she's called on leaders who amplify white nationalist rhetoric and racist dog-whistles to take ownership of their impact and immediately reverse course.

We can do better, and we must. We deserve elected leaders who will actually lead in making our country more inclusive, more welcoming, and safer for all of us.

Now, more than ever, let's make this Hispanic Heritage Month a triumphant celebration of all that makes our state of Texas, and our country, great.

-- Team MJ

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