Honoring the Participants in the 2000 "A Journey into Our Heritage" Parade and recognizing the role of Concilio in improving the lives of the Latino community in Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, On September 24, 2000, Philadelphia will hold the 38th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade; and

WHEREAS, Over 2,000 participants and 10,000 spectators will celebrate with pride their heritage with the “Journey into Our Heritage” parade; and

WHEREAS, The growth of the parade in recent years is evidenced in its coverage on WPVI-TV; and

WHEREAS, Latino's are the fastest growing segment of the population in Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, Concilio, a multi-service organization ensuring economic, social and employment services are available to the Latino community, has played a large role in its 38 year history in strengthening and growing the parade; and

WHEREAS, Philadelphia is a melting pot of different races and ethnicity's;

WHEREAS, This years theme “A Journey into Our Heritage” is an appropriate time for all Philadelphians to reflect upon their backgrounds and the strength of our diversity; and

WHEREAS, The growing Latino population continues to enrich our communities and economic growth through new ideas and a proven commitment to community; now therefore be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we honor the Latino community in Philadelphia and their contribution to our City's health, vitality and culture; and

RESOLVED FURTHER, That we honor Concilio for their work in making the parade a success and for their commitment to the community; and

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Mr. Roberto Santiago, Executive Director of Concilio as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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