PROCLAMATION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI
PROCLAMING SEPTEMBER 15-OCTOBER 15, 2026 AS LATINO HERITAGE MONTH
WHEREAS, each year, the federal, state, and many local governments observe Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by recognizing and celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America; and
WHEREAS, September 15th is significant as a starting date for Latino Heritage month because it is the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on September 16th and September 18th respectively, and Dia de La Raza, which is October 12th, falls within this 30-day period; and
WHEREAS, the National Hispanic Heritage Month theme for 2026 is “Unidos, Somos Más”, which translates to “Together, We Are More”, celebrating community strength, unity, and collective impact; and
WHEREAS, the observation started in 1968 as Latino Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30- day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. Each successive President has called upon the people of our country to observe this month with appropriate respect, ceremonies, activities; and
WHEREAS, Hispanics/Latine have made immeasurable contributions to our culture and economy and have been integral to the prosperity and enrichment of Cotati, Sonoma County and the United States; and
WHEREAS, in the City of Cotati, Hispanic/Latine community members, business owners, residents, and students continue to foster the culture and tradition as a whole while also advocating and ensuring a voice on behalf of the Hispanic/Latine community, with recent focus on immigration, education, health, wellness, financial stability, economic and civic engagement, and social justice; and
WHEREAS, Hispanics/Latine continue to enrich our nation’s character and contribute to our common future; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month also allows us to honor and celebrate the key leadership roles and accomplishments of Hispanics/Latine in our community and our shared values.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED on this day of September 8, 2026, by the City Council of the City of Cotati that September 15 - October 15, 2026 is Hispanic Heritage Month and the City Council encourages all citizens to recognize their significant and continuing contributions to our shared culture and continuing prosperity.
Approved:_____________________________
Mayor