Dated: September 14, 2022
IN RECOGNITION OF SEPTEMBER AS
NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
WHEREAS, National Hispanic Heritage Month began as a way to promote the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic-Americans – specifically those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America; and WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month originally started with one week of commemoration when it was first introduced by Congressman George E. Brown in June 1968.
With the civil rights movement, the need to recognize the contributions of the Latin community gained traction in the 1960s. Awareness of the multicultural groups living in the United States was also gradually growing; and
WHEREAS, Two heavily Latinx and Hispanic populated areas, the San Gabriel Valley and East Lost Angeles, were represented by Brown. His aim was to recognize the integral roles of these communities in American history; and
WHEREAS, Observation of Hispanic Heritage Week started in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was later extended to a 30-day celebration by President Ronald Reagan, starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988; and
WHEREAS, September 15 is set as the starting date for the month as it is important for many reasons. It is the independence anniversary for Latin American countries El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras. From here onwards, the independence days of Mexico and Chile fall on September 16 and September 18, respectively; and WHEREAS, Hispanic-Americans are the writers, singers, and musicians that enrich our arts and humanities; the innovative entrepreneurs steering our economy. They are the scientists and engineers revolutionizing our ways of life and making sweeping new discoveries; the advocates leading the way for social and political change; and WHEREAS, Hispanic-Americans have been integral to the prosperity of the United States. Their contributions to the nation are immeasurable, and they embody the best of American values; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic-Americans have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multi-ethnic and multicultural customs of their communities, while adding their own distinct and dynamic perspectives to the story of our country.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of South San Francisco does hereby recognize September as National Hispanic Heritage Month - a time to reflect on the Hispanic-American community and how it has left an indelible mark on the U.S. culture and economy.
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Mark Nagales, Mayor
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Buenaflor Nicolas, Vice Mayor
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Mark Addiego, Councilmember
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James Coleman, Councilmember
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Eddie Flores, Councilmember