Released: September 20, 2022
Delaware County recognizes National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15. Each year, Americans observe the month by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting each year on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, with the approval of Public Law 100-402.
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30-day period.
“As the diversity in Delaware County continues to grow, we recognize our responsibility as an employer and service provider to ensure that the Hispanic community feels reflected, respected, and intentionally engaged,” said Lauren Footman, Delaware County’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer.
Delaware County affirms a commitment to continue educating the community about the rich heritage of the County’s employees, partners, and residents.
The County hired its first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer in April 2022. The newly created position has a broad mandate to review current government operations, including, but not limited to operations of the County’s new health department, guidance to the County’s Human Resources Department and the Purchasing Office, support for Parks and Recreation, and support to criminal justice.
More information on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer can be found here: https://www.delcopa.gov/inclusion/