resolution
TO THE HONORABLE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE GENESEE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, GENESEE COUNTY, MICHIGAN
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
WHEREAS, National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from September 15 through October 15 and provides an opportunity for Americans to recognize, honor, and celebrate the history, culture, traditions, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans; and
WHEREAS, National Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded in 1988 to a 30-day observance beginning September 15 and ending October 15; and
WHEREAS, September 15 marks the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, while Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16 and Chile celebrates its independence on September 18; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic and Latino Americans have played an integral role in the history and development of the United States, contributing to our Nation through military service, agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, education, medicine, science, business, government, the arts, and countless other fields; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic Americans have served with distinction in the United States Armed Forces throughout our Nation's history, demonstrating courage, patriotism, and sacrifice in defense of our freedoms; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic and Latino families, workers, entrepreneurs, educators, health-care professionals, public servants, veterans, and community leaders continue to strengthen communities throughout the United States and contribute significantly to our Nation's economic, civic, and cultural vitality; and
WHEREAS, the County of Genesee recognizes that Hispanic and Latino residents and families are an important part of the fabric of our community and that their history, traditions, accomplishments, and contributions enrich Genesee County; and
WHEREAS, National Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity for all residents of Genesee County to learn about and appreciate the diverse histories and cultures of Hispanic and Latino Americans while recognizing the shared values, aspirations, and ideals that unite us as Americans;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Genesee County Board of Commissioners hereby recognizes September 15 through October 15, 2026, as National Hispanic Heritage Month in Genesee County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board encourages residents, schools, businesses, civic organizations, cultural institutions, and community organizations throughout Genesee County to recognize and celebrate the history, heritage, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Genesee County Board of Commissioners expresses its sincere appreciation to the Hispanic and Latino members of our community for the many contributions they have made and continue to make to Genesee County, the State of Michigan, and the United States of America.