Bill Summary – FastDemocracy

ENROLLED ORIGINAL

                              A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION

                                             25-238

                  IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

                                         June 11, 2024

To celebrate the achievements, contributions, and diversity of Caribbean communities and

       declare June 2024 as Caribbean Heritage Month in the District of Columbia.

       WHEREAS, the Caribbean consists of 33 political entities, including 13 independent

nations, 12 dependencies, and seven territories;

        WHEREAS, the month was founded by Dr. Claire Nelson and was celebrated across

the nation for the first time by the Institute of Caribbean Studies in 2000;

      WHEREAS, the move to officially declare June as National Caribbean American

Month started in 2004 when a legislative bill was passed by Congresswoman Barbara Lee;

       WHEREAS, a presidential proclamation declared June to be an annual recognition of

National Caribbean American Heritage Month to celebrate the contributions of Caribbean

Americans in the United States in 2006;

      WHEREAS, in 2006, actress and singer Sheryl Lee Ralph and basketball player Rick

Fox were named official spokespersons for National Caribbean American Heritage Month;

         WHEREAS, individuals of Caribbean descent have made substantial contributions to

American society in various fields, including science, education, politics, sports, business, and

civil rights, reflecting their dedication, resilience, and innovative spirit;

        WHEREAS, the Caribbean region, known for its vibrant culture, diverse heritage, and

profound influence on music, literature, cuisine, and the arts, has significantly enriched the

cultural landscape of the United States;

        WHEREAS, the recognition of Caribbean Heritage Month serves as an opportunity to

educate the public about the history and achievements of Caribbean-Americans, promoting an

inclusive society where all cultures are valued and respected;

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                                                                 ENROLLED ORIGINAL

        WHEREAS, the Office on Caribbean Affairs Establishment Act of 2020 was passed to

establish an Office on Caribbean Affairs to monitor the delivery of District services, and to

make policy recommendations to the Mayor and Council regarding housing, health, education,

employment, social services, public safety, and business opportunities for the District's

Caribbean community;

      WHEREAS, on June 2, 2022, Natalee S. Snider was appointed the Director of the

Mayor’s Office on Caribbean Community Affairs (MOCCA).

        RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this

resolution may be cited as the “Caribbean Heritage Month Recognition Ceremonial

Resolution of 2024”.

       Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes and honors the many

contributions of the Caribbean community, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the

Caribbean community, and designates June 2024 as Caribbean Heritage Month in the District

of Columbia.

      Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.

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