PROCLAMATION
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 15 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, The Hispanic and Immigrants Affairs board for the City of Raleigh looks forward to celebrating “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 nations are not monogamous and this month celebrates, honors and pays tribute to all for their contributions to our city and our society.
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, Recognizing that Hispanics amount to an estimated 59.3k residents totaling 12.5 % of the City of Raleigh population of which 42.5k of those residents speak Spanish. Understanding that Hispanics are extremely entrepreneurial and play a vital role in our economy and workforce and have also contributed in making Raleigh the 2nd largest growing metro in the United States; and
WHEREAS, the City of Raleigh recognizes the significant contributions of all Hispanic city employees, Hispanic and Immigrants Affairs board, El Centro Hispano, Disability Rights, USCRI, Welcoming America, El Pueblo, Mexican and Guatemalan Consulate, Boricuas en North Carolina, Poder NC Action, La Semilla; Where Possibilities are Born, North Carolina Congress of Latino Organizations, North Carolina Society of Hispanic Professionals, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Guatemalan Association, Centro para Familias Hispanas, Diamantes Arts and Cultural Center 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 Raleigh is committed to recognizing Hispanic/Latino and Latinx culture and heritage as an important part of the city and its strong, inclusive community; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT I Mary-Ann Baldwin, City of Raleigh Mayor do hereby proclaim September 15th – October 15th, as National Hispanic Heritage Month and call its observance to all residents.
ADOPTED