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 come from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia’s Latino communities have long enriched the social, cultural, and economic fabric of our City, distinguishing themselves as business owners, educators, civic leaders, artists, and essential workers who build stronger neighborhoods and inspire future generations; and
WHEREAS, While the achievements and enduring legacy of Hispanic and Latino communities should be honored throughout the year, Hispanic Heritage Month offers a dedicated moment to celebrate their resilience, vibrancy, and immeasurable impact on the life of our City and the nation; and
WHEREAS, In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month 2026, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is proud to recognize local advocates, educators, artists, and leaders whose work in health and wellness, youth empowerment, education, and cultural preservation continue to uplift and empower Philadelphia’s Latino communities; and
WHEREAS, María del Pilar Morales Albino has distinguished herself as a proud Puerto Rican media leader and champion of Hispanic culture, dedicating more than thirty-seven years to television and radio across Puerto Rico and the United States; through her work with Radio Borinquén, Telemundo 62, and Mega Radio, Pilar has used her voice and platform to uplift Hispanic stories, celebrate Puerto Rican heritage, and keep communities connected; and through her longstanding commitment to media and culture, she has become an influential voice and source of pride for Philadelphia’s Hispanic community; and
WHEREAS, Jannette Diaz, President and CEO of Congreso de Latinos Unidos, has dedicated more than thirty-five years to serving and strengthening Philadelphia’s Latino community; born and raised in North Philadelphia, Jannette has held leadership roles focused on health, wellness, youth services, and family well-being, helping create greater opportunities for Latino families to thrive; and through her leadership at Congreso and commitment to equity, economic mobility, and opportunity, Jannette continues to advocate for and uplift Philadelphia’s Latino community; and
WHEREAS, Ranery Figueroa-Torres is a dedicated healthcare and community engagement leader who has spent nearly a decade building partnerships and expanding access to healthcare resources for underserved and culturally diverse communities; as Manager of Community Engagement at Jefferson Health Plans, Ranery brings together healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and families while working to ensure Latino communities have access to information, resources, and opportunities; and as a bilingual and culturally responsive leader, she is helping create a more equitable healthcare system where Latino families are represented, heard, and empowered; and
WHEREAS, Esteban Vera Jr. is a proud Puerto Rican and longtime Philadelphia labor leader who has dedicated his career to creating opportunities for working families and strengthening the voice of the Latino community; as Business Manager of Laborers’ Local 57, Esteban became the first Latino to lead a major union in the Philadelphia region, and as the first Latino to serve on SEPTA’s Board of Directors, he has brought Latino representation into important spaces of regional leadership; and through his commitment to organized labor, community service, and expanding opportunity, Esteban continues to serve as a powerful example of Latino leadership in Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, Wanda Novales is a proud Puerto Rican educator, faith leader, and community advocate whose life’s work has been rooted in serving Philadelphia’s Latino community; after moving from Puerto Rico to Philadelphia as a child, Wanda dedicated her career to education and became the founding CEO and Principal of Pan American Charter School, creating opportunities for students and families in Kensington; today, as a member of the Philadelphia Board of Education, Executive Pastor of CityReach Church, and longtime community leader, she continues to advocate for Philadelphia’s students and families, bringing people together through faith, education, and community service while uplifting Latino families and inspiring the next generation of leaders; and
WHEREAS
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These five distinguished leaders reflect the strength, resilience, and diversity of Philadelphia’s Latino community, and through their leadership, service, and dedication, have helped create a City where Latino families can see themselves, their culture, and their future represented; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes and honors these distinguished Latino leaders and community advocates during Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrates the countless ways Latino Philadelphians continue to shape and strengthen our City, and reaffirms our commitment to uplifting Latino voices, honoring our shared histories and cultures, and ensuring that every corner of Philadelphia has the opportunity to thrive.
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