WHEREAS, The month of June has been set aside to honor Caribbean Americans, their legacy and heritage, as Caribbean Americans have made lasting contributions to America’s culture and history; and
WHEREAS, The Caribbean boasts a unique and vibrant culture. Its multicultural, multilinguistic, and multiethnic traditions have strengthened the United Stated and enriched many other countries in the Americas and around the world. As immigrant transplants, generations of Caribbean people have managed to preserve the traditions of their homelands as they assimilated to life in other nations; and
WHEREAS, Millions of individuals in the United States have Caribbean roots. In their pursuit of success, Caribbean Americans have left their marks on many facets of society. From art to science, politics and music, Caribbean people are active contributors to the United States; and
WHEREAS, The campaign to designate June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month, was spearheaded by Dr. Claire Nelson, Founder and President of the Institute of Caribbean Studies; and
WHEREAS, In June 2005, Congresswoman Barbara Lee led the effort to establish June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month. The House of Representatives unanimously adopted H. Con. Res. 71, recognizing the significance of Caribbean people and their descendants in the history and culture of the United States. On February 14, 2006, the Resolution passed the Senate, culminating a two-year, bipartisan and bicameral effort. President Bush then issued a proclamation declaring June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month; and
WHEREAS, Thereafter, President Obama and President Trump have since maintained the presidential proclamation for the last twelve years. This year, the Mayor’s Commission on African and Caribbean Immigrant Affairs together with other member Caribbean Organizations will recognize the important contributions of Caribbean Americans; and
WHEREAS, The commemoration of this month is a reminder that America’s greatness lies in its diversity of which, Caribbean immigrants are an integral part that have helped to shape the American dream; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby proclaims June 2018 National Caribbean American Heritage Month.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Caribbean Community in Philadelphia as a sincere expression of the Council of the City of Philadelphia’s gratitude, admiration and recognition.
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