WHEREAS, the first group of 46 Pacific Islander settlers arrived on August 28, 1889 to establish the Iosepa settlement in Tooele County’s Skull Valley, becoming the first members of a now thriving community of 50,000 Pacific Islanders who call Utah home; and

WHEREAS, we honor and recognize the courage and perseverance of those first 46 trailblazing Pacific Islander settlers for pursuing their hopes and dreams in a new land, despite cultural shock, racial discrimination, and social inequity hardships; and

WHEREAS, in 2012 the month of August was officially declared as Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the State of Utah; and

WHEREAS, today, Salt Lake City is enriched by the influence of the proud Pacific Islander people and culture, including its diversity, arts, cuisine, business, government, and sports; and

WHEREAS, this year the Utah Pacific Island Heritage Month Kick-Off event celebrates its 10-year anniversary and several events featuring art exhibits, live music, and food festivals will occur throughout the month to feature and celebrate our local Pacific Islander community, culture, traditions, and food.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, proclaim August 2022 as:

Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Salt Lake City

To view an electronic copy of the signed proclamation, click here.