LANSING, Mich., Sept. 26, 2022 — State Rep. Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Township) introduced House Resolution 338 to declare Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, 2022, as Hispanic Heritage Month in the state of Michigan. Despite Hispanic Heritage Month being a long-standing tradition in the United States, it is not currently recognized in Michigan. After months of meetings canceled by the Republican majority, Cavanagh tried to bring HR 338 to the Capitol floor last week; however, GOP leaders refused to allow a vote, referring the resolution to committee.
“What should be a bipartisan, noncontroversial commemorative resolution has fallen victim to the GOP majority’s continued refusal to work with House Democrats — work that is necessary, so together we can all advocate for the people of Michigan,” Cavanagh said. “I am disappointed in my colleagues across the aisle for refusing to allow a vote on HR 338. This resolution would make Hispanic Heritage Month official in Michigan like we did in 2021 and 11 other times over the last 20 years. This is a special time to recognize the economic, cultural and social contributions that Hispanic communities bring to our state. These shenanigans took place on Latino Legislative Day, an annual day of advocacy in which dozens of Hispanic and Latino leaders from across the state traveled to the Capitol to share their work with their legislators. Being recognized and seen is an essential part of forging equity and equality in our country and our state — officially declaring Hispanic Heritage Month in Michigan is one step toward this consequential goal.”
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, was enacted into U.S. law in 1988. It is a way to promote the history, culture and contributions of Hispanic-Americans — specifically, those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Communities mark the achievements of Hispanic and Latino Americans with festivals and educational activities.