Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month
WHEREAS, Hispanic and Latino heritage in the Commonwealth of Virginia dates back many centuries and continues to influence the rich fabric of our society; and
WHEREAS, Hispanics and Latinos in Virginia have a long tradition of defending our Nation, including serving in the American Revolution and every military conflict since, a tradition of service which continues today with many men and women of Hispanic and Latino heritage honorably serving in the Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, According to the 2010 U.S. Census, the Hispanic and Latino community continues to represent a large and growing percentage of the population of the Commonwealth of Virginia; and
WHEREAS, the Hispanic and Latino community continues to shape our future by providing leaders in industry, science, the armed services, business, politics, law, education, health care, sports, and the arts, effectively expanding the horizons of our cultural achievements and helping to promote Virginia’s future success; and
WHEREAS, the Hispanic and Latino community exemplifies the fundamental Virginia values of hard work, innovation, and entrepreneurship, with workforce representation in nearly every industry leading the way in developing new technologies, and making significant contributions to the Commonwealth's overall economy, evidenced by having 19 of the top 500 U.S. Hispanic owned businesses in the country contributing over $1.1 billion in revenue and employing approximately 6,923 workers; and
WHEREAS, as Virginians of all backgrounds and experiences play an important part in our Commonwealth’s rich history and limitless future, it is important to recognize the positive contributions of citizens of all heritages and races;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert F. McDonnell, do hereby recognize September 15 through October 15, 2011 as HISPANIC and LATINO HERITAGE MONTH in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens; and
FURTHERMORE, I encourage all citizens to participate in activities and festivities that celebrate our Commonwealth’s diverse history, heritage and culture.