ENROLLED ORIGINAL
A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
25-272
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
October 1, 2024
To recognize Hispanic Heritage Month and the contributions the Hispanic community has made
to the District of Columbia.
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration from September 15 to
October 15 of the history and culture of the U.S. Latino and Hispanic communities, as well as a
commemoration of how those communities influenced and contributed to American society;
WHEREAS, the origins of Hispanic Heritage Month date back to California in the 1960s,
where Latino and Hispanic residents joined in multiple societal movements, including the civil
rights movement and the farm worker protection movement;
WHEREAS, the Hispanic community, which make up approximately 11% of the
population of the District of Columbia, have contributed to the vibrant and diverse culture of the
District, including hosting performances at the GALA Hispanic Theater and providing cultural
programs throughout the city;
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month also contains Fiesta DC, an annual celebration of
Latino heritage in the District. The event, which takes place just blocks from the White House,
includes a celebration of Latino food, culture, and a “Parade of the Nations”;
WHEREAS, Hispanic and Latino businesses have also been critical to the business
environment of the District. Organizations such as the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce help Hispanic and Latino businesses develop and thrive in the District;
WHEREAS, Hispanic and Latino community members have made great public service
contributions in the District, including Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and
Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States Sonia Sotomayor; and
WHEREAS, Hispanic multiculturalism, diversity, and leadership in the District has
contributed to a stronger, healthier District.
1
 ENROLLED ORIGINAL
IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF
COLUMBIA, That this resolution may be cited as the “Hispanic Heritage Month Recognition
Resolution of 2024”.
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month and
the contributions the Hispanic and Latino communities have made to the District of Columbia.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.
2