From September 15 to October 15, municipalities across the country celebrate the contributions of Hispanic Americans to our nation in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month. This month, the National League of Cities constituency group Hispanic Elected Local Officials (HELO) commemorates the month by sharing the different ways our cities, towns and villages recognize this month in an ever-changing landscape.
When it comes to honoring Hispanic Heritage month Mesa, Arizona, is no exception. On September 15, the City presented a proclamation to the Mesa Hispanic Network and the Mesa en Español groups declaring September 15 – October 15, 2021, as National Hispanic Heritage Month for the City of Mesa. It has also focused on recognizing exemplary City employees who go above and beyond to serve its residents and businesses. Their profiles were featured in English and Spanish on the city’s social media pages as part of its “A Tu Servicio” campaign.
As the first Hispanic elected to the Mesa City Council, Councilmember David Luna says: “I feel the need to recognize upcoming leaders in our community. I have collaborated with Mesa Channel 11 on a series of segments that feature successful Latinos making a difference in their communities and leaving a mark in our City. Finally, we are sharing our language and culture with our kiddos through Spanish language and bilingual story times at our children’s library. Hispanic Heritage Month is not just about celebrating our traditions and where we come from but also about teaching future generations about their roots and instilling pride in our diversity.”
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in a Changing World
- Corpus Christi, Texas – Will pass the first Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation in 15 years.
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Hosts Feria del Barrio street festival in coalition with local Hispanic organizations.
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania – Is featuring Facebook Live sessions throughout the month featuring Hispanic food, art, dance, and music.
- Gaithersburg, Maryland – Hosts an art exhibit that includes an Altar del Día de los Muertos. Those visiting the display are encouraged to donate school supplies for local children.
- Chandler, Arizona – Is honoring Hispanic Heritage Month with the “Chandler Contigo” series of events. Including the 22nd Annual Chandler Mariachi and Folklorico Festival a tradition that highlights Mexican music and dance and includes performances from folklorico dancers from Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ.
- Denver, Colorado – There are a range of events occurring in Denver for Hispanic Heritage Month including the Americas COVID-19 Memorial art exhibit at the Museo de las Americas, Latin Fashion Week Colorado, the unveiling of a 15-foot-tall Mexican folkloric sculpture at the Denver Botanic Gardens, and a comedy event featuring famed Mexican comedians.
- Pasadena, California – The City of Pasadena is hosting virtual and in person events to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month with a virtual mark your own piñata and Dia de los Muertos Sugar Skull craft events with material pick up at the community center. There is also an in person Latino Heritage Concert and Movie in the Park.
About the Author
Racial Equity Bond Markets Resource Bank
From the Event: NLC Celebrates Race Forward’s Cultural Week of Action
Lessons from the Cities of Opportunity Mayors Institute on Community Revitalization
Advancing Understanding of Indigenous History
Creativity and Collaboration for Healthier Cities
