RESOLUTION NO. 961216

Designating September 13 - October 19, Hispanic Heritage Month.

WHEREAS, Hispanic people have made significant contributions to the economic and cultural growth and development of the United States of America and played an important role in the early exploration and settlement of our nation; and

WHEREAS, their efforts have not always been appreciated, the City must reaffirm our commitment to eliminate all residues of prejudice and be more receptive to the richness of diverse cultures; and

WHEREAS, Hispanics have given us statesmen, musicians, athletes, Nobel-prize winning scientists, philosophers, and have contributed to the defense of the nation; and

WHEREAS, Hispanics possess a sense of justice and compassion which nurtures the democratic system and ensures its progress; and

WHEREAS, the City must continue to search out innovative ways in which government can work in partnership with the Hispanic community to ensure that all Americans benefit from the resulting improvements; and

WHEREAS, the Hispanic community of Greater Kansas City will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 13, 1996 through October 19, 1996; and

WHEREAS, the Hispanic community is composed of persons of Mexican descent, as well as those from the Caribbean, Central America, South America, Spain, and other Spanish-speaking areas of the world, and this diversity in the heritage of Hispanic people will be reflected in the seminars, films, art exhibits, flag displays, parades, festivals, and special events scheduled for the month; NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

That the Mayor and Council do hereby designate the period from September 13 through October 19, 1996, as Hispanic Heritage Month in Kansas City, Missouri, and urge all citizens to reflect on the Hispanic heritage of our nation and to share in the rich diversity, prosperity and abundance of our great country; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that copies be presented in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

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