The City of San Bernardino Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15, recognizing the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the fabric of our nation; and
WHEREAS, the Hispanic community represents a vibrant part of San Bernardino, contributing to our city’s diversity, culture, economy, and leadership in various sectors, including education, arts, business, and public service; and
WHEREAS, the origins of Hispanic Heritage Month date back to 1968, when President Lyndon B. Johnson first proclaimed Hispanic Heritage Week, which was later expanded to a month-long celebration in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan; and
WHEREAS, the dates for Hispanic Heritage Month are significant as they mark the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Chile, all of which are celebrated within this time frame; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic and Latino Americans have made significant contributions to our nation’s history and continue to play a critical role in shaping the future of the United States, especially here in San Bernardino; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Bernardino recognizes the important role of the Consulado de México in San Bernardino, which actively supports the local Hispanic community through its advocacy, educational programs, and consular services, helping Mexican nationals and their families navigate issues such as immigration, education, and economic empowerment, thus fostering growth and cooperation between the United States and Mexico; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor the many achievements and sacrifices of Hispanic individuals, whose heritage includes ancestors from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Bernardino recognizes the invaluable role that Hispanic residents, community leaders, and organizations, such as the Consulado de México, play in the development, unity, and progress of our city, contributing to its economic growth, cultural vitality, and social enrichment.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that the Mayor and City Council of San Bernardino do hereby proclaim September 15 – October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month in the City of San Bernardino and encourage all residents to join in recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities, along with the work of the Consulado de México, to our city and our nation.
Presented on this 2nd Day of October 2024