H.R. No. 43 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, April 9, 2012, will mark the sixth anniversary of the Dallas Mega March for American Values and Justice; and WHEREAS, The largest public protest in the city's history, the Mega March drew between 350,000 and 500,000 participants who joined together in support of immigration reform; and WHEREAS, This powerful but peaceful gathering was sponsored by LULAC and a coalition of Dallas-area groups, and it was attended by throngs of people who trod the mile-long parade route in the city's downtown; wearing white and carrying signs and American flags, marchers highlighted the positive economic impact that immigrants have on the U.S. economy and promoted changes that would allow foreign workers an easier means of gaining legal status and citizenship; and WHEREAS, Taking place at a crucial time in the nation's history, the Dallas event was part of a series of rallies that occurred across the country as federal lawmakers considered immigration reform; and WHEREAS, The Mega March offered further proof that concerned Texans, Hispanics and non-Hispanics alike, were committed to voicing their opinions in the immigration debate; that spirit of civic involvement remains strong, and it continues to influence ongoing discussions about a range of important issues, thereby strengthening the vital traditions of free speech and political activism in the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the sixth anniversary of the Dallas Mega March for American Values and Justice on April 9, 2012, and pay tribute to all those who planned and took part in that historic event. Alonzo ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 43 was adopted by the House on February 24, 2011, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House