REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of September 15 - October 15, 2026 as Hispanic Heritage Month
Report
BACKGROUND
President Lyndon B. Johnson first recognized Hispanic heritage at the national level in 1968 by issuing a proclamation establishing Hispanic Heritage Week. The observance was designated to include September 15 and 16 in recognition of the independence anniversaries of several Latin American nations. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua celebrate their independence on September 15, followed by Mexico on September 16 and Chile on September 18.
In 1988, Congress expanded the observance from one week to a 30-day period, from September 15 through October 15, to provide greater recognition of Hispanic heritage, history, culture, and contributions to the United States. The following year, President George H.W. Bush issued a presidential proclamation recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrating the generations of Hispanic and Latino Americans whose achievements, leadership, traditions, and service have enriched the nation.
The Hispanic and Latino community is an important part of the cultural, social, and economic fabric of the City of Santa Clara and the greater Santa Clara County region. Nearly 16 percent of Santa Clara residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, while approximately 30 percent of Santa Clara County residents identify as Hispanic or Latino. The Hispanic and Latino population is projected to continue growing in the decades ahead, further contributing to the diversity and vitality of the region.
The 2026 Hispanic Heritage Month theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” recognizes the transformative contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans across science, education, the arts, government, business, civic leadership, and community service. The theme also celebrates those who have broken barriers, strengthened communities, and created opportunities for future generations while encouraging people of all backgrounds to work together toward a more inclusive and promising future.
Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and achievements of Hispanic and Latino Americans and to recognize their enduring contributions to the City of Santa Clara, the State of California, and the United States.
DISCUSSION
At the September 22, 2026, City Council meeting, the City Council will proclaim September 15 through October 15, 2026, as Hispanic Heritage Month in the City of Santa Clara. This annual observance provides an opportunity to celebrate the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans and to recognize the generations whose leadership, service, creativity, and achievements have helped shape our community and nation.
The City of Santa Clara is proud to join communities across the country in honoring the diverse heritage of residents with roots throughout Latin America and Spain and in recognizing their lasting contributions to the cultural, civic, economic, and social fabric of Santa Clara.
Jose Posadas of the La Raza Historical Society will be in attendance to receive the Proclamation on behalf of the organization. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the La Raza Historical Society is dedicated to documenting, preserving, and sharing the history and experiences of La Raza through oral and video interviews, historical materials, and community artifacts.
The Society also provides information and educational resources through the Chiechi House and online, serving community members, families, youth, educators, and other professionals. Its work includes developing educational materials for California history and ethnic studies that highlight La Raza’s experiences, challenges, contributions, and achievements.
Through its website (www.larazahs.org) and social media platforms, the Society further expands access to historical information and promotes the preservation and sharing of community history for future generations.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimee Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of September 15 - October 15, 2026 as Hispanic Heritage Month