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, Salt Lake City is honored to host the 9th Annual Utah Pacific Island Heritage Month Kick-Off event and a variety of other activities, including art exhibits, live music, and food festivals throughout the month.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, proclaim August 2021 as:

PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH in Salt Lake City

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