That this City Council hereby recognizes the period of September 15th to October 15th as Hispanic Heritage Month

WHEREAS: The Hispanic Community in Somerville compromises the largest non-white population of our City and hispanic heritage forms part of the heart and soul of our city; and WHEREAS: Somerville is a gateway city for a sizable Hispanic population and therefore to welcome this community we must celebrate their heritage and reaffirm that diversity is one of our City’s greatest strengths; and WHEREAS: The Hispanic Heritage Month is a reminder that our city is enriched by the language, the culture, the art, the food and the creativity of the Hispanic Community; and WHEREAS: The Hispanic Heritage month is a recognition of the endless contributions of our Hispanic community from artists, scientists, academics, business owners to essential workers who help support some of the most critical industries in our region including academia, life sciences, healthcare, restaurants and hospitality; and WHEREAS: The Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize leaders who have stayed in the struggle for equal justice to ensure that everyone in our community can contribute their talents and have the opportunity to thrive; and WHEREAS: Currently the Hispanic community is suffering due to the unjust and inhumane immigration laws and policies of our country and therefore the importance of their contribution to our society and our community should be celebrated; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That this City Council hereby recognize the period of September 15th through October 15th Hispanic Heritage Month; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That this City Council recognize and honor a municipal worker or community member who carries on the efforts in our City to seek equal justice for the Hispanic Community and exemplifies leadership in the efforts to allow the community to thrive during the celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month.