AGENDA ITEM #16
TOWN OF FAIRFAX PROCLAMATION
National Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month
September 15 through October 15, 2024
WHEREAS, each year, the federal, state, and local governments observe National Hispanic and Latino American Heritage Month, from September 15 to October 15, by 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
WHEREAS, this year’s theme, “Pioneers for Change: Shaping the Future Together”, recognizes the significant economic, political, and social achievements of Hispanic and Latino American communities and individuals; and
WHEREAS, California is home to more than 15 million Hispanic and Latino American residents who comprise 40% of the State’s population, making them California’s largest ethnic minority; and WHEREAS, Hispanic and Latino Americans make a significant contribution to Fairfax’s community and culture, comprising a growing proportion of the local population and a substantial share of the local workforce and business community; and
WHEREAS, we honor and respect the resilience of Hispanic and Latino American communities who have persisted, through centuries of discrimination, to lead movements for justice and equality; and WHEREAS labor leader and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta said, “Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.” NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Fairfax, hereby proclaims September 15 through October 15, 2024 to be National Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month in the Town of Fairfax and encourage all residents to learn more about and celebrate the culture and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.
Signed this 4th day of September 2024
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Barbara Coler, Mayor of Fairfax