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Declaring September 15, 2017 through October 15, 2017 as Hispanic Heritage Month here in the City of Philadelphia to honor the role that Hispanics have played and continue to play in the economic, cultural and social development of our City and nation.
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WHEREAS, Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American Citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America; and
WHEREAS, The term Hispanic or Latino, refers to Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin regardless of race. On the 2010 Census form, people of Spanish, Hispanic and/or Latino origin could identify themselves as Mexican, Mexican American, Chicano, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or "another Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin; and
WHEREAS, The day of September 15th is significant as it’s the anniversary of independence for many Latin American countries like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this time of observation; and
WHEREAS, The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was later expanded by President Ronald Regan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period which was later enacted into law on August 17, 1988 to recognize Hispanic Ancestry and recognize the many accomplishments and contributions made by Hispanics nationwide; and
WHEREAS, Today over 55 million people or 17% of the American population are of Hispanic or Latino origin, representing a significant increase from 2000, which registered the Hispanic population at 35.3 Million or 13% of the total U.S. population; and
WHEREAS, According to the 2010 U.S. Census, here in Philadelphia Hispanics make up 12.3% of the population. Hispanics in the City of Philadelphia are unique leaders and exceptional role models in all professions and have distinguished themselves as smart and wise business owners, creating jobs, paying wages and demonstrating that they are a positive force in our local communities and neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the nation and the City of Philadelphia, Hispanics make up a significant portion of the labor force, working as elected and public officials, CEOs, small business owners, entrepreneurs and homemakers who provide leadership, guidance and support of the values which strengthen our economy; and
WHEREAS, Here in the City of Philadelphia, the Office of Immigrant Affairs will host several events celebrating the dedication of Hispanics to the community, while aiming to unite individuals from all different cultures and countries with events like; the Welcoming Week’s Kickoff & An Immigrant Alphabet Press Conference on September 15, 2017, a project collaboration between artist Wendy Ewald and eighteen students at Northeast High School, one of the most diverse high school in the City. The students reflected on their journeys and ways of representing their stories through images and words. Expressed as an alphabet, twenty-six large banners that give insight into the complexities of immigration in America will be hung around the exterior of the Municipal Services Building; and
WHEREAS, Other events throughout the week include a Percussion Demonstration featuring Arab and African American percussionists Hafez Kotain and Kwasi Daryl Burgee followed by Nicaraguan Flag Raising Ceremony here at City Hall. Several large events stretch out into the weekend as the City of Philadelphia has brought back the Philadelphia International Unity Cup, a soccer tournament that celebrated the rich cultural diversity of the City of Brotherly Love through the worldwide appeal of soccer. The day’s tournaments include: Ukraine vs. Ghana, India vs. Bosnia, Brazil vs. Panama, and South Korea vs. Ireland; and
WHEREAS, On Monday, September 18, 2017 the Puerto Rican flag will be raised at City hall to kick off the 10th Annual Puerto Rican Festival Week celebrating and promoting the understanding, respect, and appreciation for our many residents, cultures, and communities. On September 24, 2017, after the celebration of the 55th Puerto Rican Parade on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, members of the community will gather in the 7th Councilmanic District for the concert series “Boricua Fest” to be headlined by Charlie Cruz to celebrate our Puerto Rican community here in the City of Philadelphia; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby declare September 15, 2017 – October 15, 2017 as “Hispanic Heritage Month” in the City of Philadelphia, to recognize the many accomplishments and contributions made by Hispanics, and encourage all residents to learn more about the people who have played such an important role in our history.
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