Tartaglione’s Legislation Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month Adopted by Senate Unanimously

The month-long national observance will continue through October 15 and recognize the achievements of Hispanic Americans while celebrating their rich culture

PHILADELPHIA, PA, September 24, 2018 – The Pennsylvania Senate today unanimously adopted Sen. Christine Tartaglione’s resolution designating Hispanic Heritage Month in the Commonwealth. The commemoration began on Sept. 15 and will continue through Oct. 15. It coincides with National Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States.

The commemoration recognizes the many achievements of Hispanic Americans and celebrates their rich contributions to the American melting pot. President Lyndon Johnson created Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. Twenty years later, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the inaugural National Hispanic Heritage Month, starting on Sept. 15 that year. That date coincides with independence observances in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence in mid-September.

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a great time to indulge in cultural fiestas, but it’s also a wonderful educational opportunity,” Tartaglione said. “We can learn how some of the nation’s earliest settlers brought Hispanic traditions and customs to Pennsylvania during the 1400s, and how Hispanic Americans constitute the nation’s largest and fastest growing ethnic group.”

Senator Tartaglione noted the contributions of many distinguished Hispanic Americans including Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Astronaut Ellen Ochoa, Labor Organizer Cesar Chavez, Rock N Roll Hall of Fame Member Carlos Santana and multi-award-winning Performer Rita Moreno.

She also invited all Pennsylvanians to visit Philadelphia on Sept. 30 for the annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Festival, a community tradition for more than 50 years.

“The Hispanic community has made a profound and positive influence on our Commonwealth through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work and service,” Tartaglione said.

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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.