Cavanagh, Camilleri and Garza Declare Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month

LANSING, Mich., Sept. 15, 2021 — Yesterday, the state House unanimously adopted House Resolution 156, which declares Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in the state of Michigan. The date represents the anniversary of independence for Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Nicaragua. State Reps. Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Township), Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), and Alex Garza (D-Taylor), sponsors of the resolution, issued the following statements:

 

“As one of only 13 Hispanic and Latinx members ever elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, I come from criminally underrepresented and marginalized groups,” said Cavanagh, the Legislative Latino Caucus chair. “First coming to this state mainly as agricultural laborers, Hispanic and Latinx communities were essential to the history and development of our state. Now, in addition to the hard-working and underappreciated farm workers, we sit in board rooms, classrooms and firehouses; we are doctors, military members and representatives of this very legislative body. We are a community of diverse immigrants, and we recognize this day to honor our people and all who came before.”

 

“Recognition of our community is not only important to affirm current leaders and members but also to inspire the Hispanic and Latino youth who will one day take our place,” said Camilleri, vice chair of the Michigan Legislative Latino Caucus. “By recognizing this month as Hispanic Heritage Month, we empower and uplift our community, which has accomplished so much for our state.”

 

“As part of the House Latino Caucus, it is my honor to recognize this month as Hispanic Heritage Month,” said Garza. “Remembering who we are and where we came from ensures we continue to serve our communities with dedication and sincerity. We use this time to share our experiences with both our community and those outside of it who might otherwise not know the achievements and sacrifices made by our parents and grandparents. Honoring them and remembering their stories is the least we can do for all of their hard work.”