WHEREAS, National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed September 15 through October 15, celebrating Hispanic and Latin American people, cultures, achievements, and contributions; and

WHEREAS, the observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week and was then expanded into a month-long celebration and officially enacted into federal law on August 17, 1988; and

WHEREAS, several Latin American countries celebrate their independence anniversaries on September 15th, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala; Honduras, and Nicaragua, with Mexico and Chile celebrating their anniversaries on September 16th and September 18th, aligning the significance of the observance start date; and

WHEREAS, we recognize the importance of acknowledging the diversity within the Hispanic and Latino community, spanning a multitude of countries, languages, cultures, and traditions, all of which contribute to the vibrant mosaic of American Life; and

WHEREAS, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering inclusivity, promoting equality, and ensuring that the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans are valued, celebrated, and fully integrated into the tapestry of our shared history; and

WHEREAS, we support the 2023 theme, Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, Progress in America, and Environmentally Sustainable Futures; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City recognizes and actively works to address the environmental issues that disproportionately affect Hispanic and Latino residents such as urban heat, access to nature, active transportation access, air quality and others; and

WHEREAS, we invite all communities, businesses, and employees to take part in this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month events and celebrations.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, proclaim September 15 through October 15, 2023, as:

Hispanic Heritage Month in Salt Lake City

To view the electronically signed copy of the proclamation, click here.