Title
Recognizing September 15 through October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in the City of Philadelphia and honoring the history, culture, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities to our City and nation.
Body
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15 to recognize and honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors
came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America; and
WHEREAS, The observance began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, introduced by California Congressman George E. Brown during a time of growing civil rights awareness, and was formalized through Public Law 90-48, with President Lyndon B. Johnson issuing the first presidential proclamation; and
WHEREAS, In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed legislation expanding the celebration to a full month, and on August 17, 1988, it became law, establishing Hispanic Heritage Month as a national period of recognition; and
WHEREAS, The celebration begins on September 15, a date marking the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, with Mexico and Chile celebrating their independence shortly after on September 16 and 18, respectively; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic and Latino communities have made extraordinary contributions to the United States and the City of Philadelphia-shaping our society through advocacy, leadership, entrepreneurship, education, public service, the arts, sports, and culinary traditions; and
WHEREAS, US Census Bureau data shows that Latinos are the fastest-growing community in Philadelphia. The City's Latino population has almost doubled since 2000, increasing from approximately 129,000 residents in 2000 to more than 244,000 today, representing around 16 percent of the City's total population; and
WHEREAS, Latino Philadelphians have distinguished themselves as business owners, civic leaders, educators, workers, and innovators, drivin...
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