Roskam trip to Honduras worth it

I am pleased that Republicans are taking an active role in ensuring justice and democratic values for Hispanics. As a Hispanic American, its heartening to see that Congressman Peter Roskam recently traveled to Honduras to meet with political leaders during a crucial time in our democratic ally's history.

Latin America has been plagued with a violent multinational drug war and dictatorial regimes like Venezuela's Hugo Chavez. Honduras, however, has had a democratically elected government for 18 consecutive years. When sitting Honduran President Manuel Zelaya tried to force the country to vote out term limits, I was both surprised and disappointed to see the Obama administration rise to support this cheap power grab.

Even after both the Supreme Court ruled and the National People's Congress of Honduras voted that Zelaya should be removed from office, the Obama administration continues to stand against the constitution.

As an American, I believe standing aside while another Latin American democracy falls into dictatorial hands is unconscionable. As someone of Hispanic Heritage, I implore our elected officials to stand up for security and stability in Latin America, because a stable Central America will provide better trade, security, and stability for the United States. Thankfully, Congressman Roskam understands the stakes and was willing to heed the call.

Manuel M. Fortuna

Addison