MILWAUKEE – Today begins the observation of Hispanic Heritage Month, which celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of Hispanic Americans who have achieved success and inspired others.
“As the first Afro-Latina elected Chairwoman of the County Board it is my great pleasure to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Milwaukee County,” said Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson. “Uplifting Milwaukee County’s Hispanic community is vital to our vision of achieving racial equity. I would encourage all Milwaukeeans to take this month to learn more about the amazing experiences our Hispanic community has to offer.”
Hispanic Heritage Month began as Hispanic Heritage Week after President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a bill establishing the week of September 15 as such in 1968. The weeklong observation was extended to its current full 30-day period of September 15 through October 15 in 1988.
“I am excited to join Chairwoman Nicholson and my colleagues on the County Board in celebrating the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month,” said Supervisor Sylvia Ortiz-Velez. “Milwaukee County’s Hispanic community contributes immensely to the culture, history, and success of our county. The Hispanic community has too many exceptional organizations, businesses, and leaders to thank and appreciate, so I encourage all county residents to take some time this month to go out and support Latino-owned businesses and attend community events. I am especially proud this month to be representing Milwaukee’s South Side Latino community, and I look forward to celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with my neighbors, family, and friends!”
Many Milwaukee institutions including Milwaukee Film, Milwaukee Area Technical College, and Milwaukee PBS are offering Hispanic Heritage Month-themed programming to celebrate and educate the community on Hispanic Milwaukeeans’ contributions to our community.
