Declaring September 15, 2016 through October 15, 2016 as Hispanic Heritage Month to honor the role that Hispanics have played and continue to play in the economic, cultural and social development of our nation.

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 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 September 18, 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 Reagan 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, Hispanics make up a significant portion of the labor force, working as elected officials, CEOs, small business owners, entrepreneurs and homemakers who provide leadership, guidance and support of the values which strengthen our economy; and

WHEREAS, 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, Hispanics in the City of Philadelphia own more than 600 restaurants in the City, significantly contributing to the local food culture renaissance of the City, a movement that crosses ethnic and social backgrounds; and

WHEREAS, Chef Jose Garces, one of the most dynamic and distinguished chefs in the nation and proudly calls Philadelphia home, has been leading Philadelphia’s food movement since opening his first of nine restaurants in the City in 2005; and

WHEREAS, Hispanic business owners, despite the many risks and personal sacrifices they encounter, continue to be inspirations to their families, employees and the community and whose success stories we can learn to emulate; and

WHEREAS, When Hispanics succeed, our nation, our state, our region and our City succeeds; and their potential should only be limited by the breadth of their dreams; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby declare September 15, 2016 – October 15, 2016 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.

End