PROCLAMATION
RECOGNIZING SEPTEMBER 15th – OCTOBER 15th , 2023 AS
NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
IN THE CITY OF HERCULES
WHEREAS, The City of Hercules recognizes and honors contributions of all members of our community; and WHEREAS, Hispanic Americans bring a rich cultural heritage representing many countries, ethnicities and religious traditions which contribute to America's future; and WHEREAS, the observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson, and was expanded in 1988 by the United States Congress to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15; and WHEREAS, September 15 is the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua; and Mexico achieved independence on September 16; and Chile achieved independence on September 18; and WHEREAS, more than 15 million Hispanics live in the State of California, the largest racial or ethnic group in the state. A diverse group with roots throughout Latin America and beyond, many Hispanic Californians also trace their heritage to the original Indigenous communities of Latin America and Africa. During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor and recognize all in the Hispanic community who helped build our state and city. They are our teachers, business owners, councilmembers, scientists, soldiers, farmworkers, first responders, artists, activists, colleagues, and friends. Hispanic Californians make valuable contributions to our neighborhoods, communities, and every sector of the economy. We are a more excellent and vibrant place because of them; and WHEREAS, The Hispanic community has had a profound influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and services, and they have enhanced and shaped our national heritage with centuries old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their community; and WHEREAS, The City of Hercules invites all members of the community to learn more about the rich Hispanic culture, traditions and history, and celebrate the contributions that have been made to our country and our community by Hispanic Americans.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that I, Alex Walker-Griffin, Mayor of the City of Hercules, on behalf of the entire City Council, do hereby recognize September 15 to October 15, 2023, to be Hispanic Heritage Month in the City of Hercules.
In witness whereof, I hereunto set my hand and cause the seal of the City of Hercules to be affixed this 12th day of September, 2023. ________________________________ Alex Walker-Griffin, Mayor