A PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF POMONA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, PROCLAIMING SEPTEMBER 15 – OCTOBER 15, 2026 AS “NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH” IN THE CITY OF POMONA WHEREAS, National Hispanic Heritage Month, known as “Mes de Herencia Hispana”, is celebrated nationwide from September 15th through October 15th each year. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988, to cover the month at which it is celebrated today. Understanding that September 15th is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and 18, respectively; and WHEREAS, many community-based organizations such as La Cámara De Comercio Hispana De Pomona (CDPHP), the Latino/Latina Round Table (LRT), and the Pomona Economic Opportunity Center (PEOC) celebrate “Mes de Herencia Hispana” with the greater community to highlight the rich heritage, arts, histories, food, music, and traditions of all 26+ Latin American nations. While recognizing that these communities are not homogenous and that this month celebrates, honors, and pays tribute to the diverse voices, cultures, and lived experiences—especially in light of ongoing challenges faced by Hispanic communities, including discriminatory immigration policies and federal actions that continue to threaten the well-being and dignity of many; and WHEREAS, Latinos are individuals that are descendants from Latin American countries and may speak a variety of different languages. Hispanics are individuals that speak Spanish and are descendants from Spanish speaking countries, including Spain. Latinx is a gender neutral or non-binary term for people of Latin American descent, and we recognize the Latinx identity also encompasses people in Black/African, Asian, Indigenous, and Queer communities; and WHEREAS, the City of Pomona recognizes the significant contributions of all Hispanic Pomonans, City employees, Commissioners and numerous grassroots leaders and outreach groups that help increase cultural awareness, education, enrichment, and community engagement with our residents. It is through their support and community involvement that our City has continued to become more culturally diverse and a welcoming city for everyone; and WHEREAS, the City of Pomona is committed to recognizing Hispanic/Latino and Latinx culture and heritage as an important part of the city and its strong, inclusive community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the City of Pomona does hereby proclaim September 15th – October 15th, 2026 as National Hispanic Heritage Month and call its observance to all residents. “National Hispanic Heritage Month”
Dated this 14th day of September 2026