On Tuesday, Sept. 19, Killeen Mayor Debbie Nash-King will honor Hispanic Heritage Month during a reception and celebration at City Hall at 4p.m.
The event will take place in the City Hall foyer on the first floor (101 North College Street) and the community is invited to attend. The Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce-Central Texas, the Sociedad Cultural HispanoAmericana, the League of United Latin American Citizens Council (LULAC) Herencia #4297 and the Killeen-Fort Hood League of United Latin American Citizens Council (LULAC) #4535 have been invited, as Mayor Nash-King presents an official proclamation.
For 60 years, Americans have formally commemorated the Hispanic culture. National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from Sept. 15 – Oct.15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
It all began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson, then was expanded to a 30-day celebration in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan.
September 15th is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days during this time period.
The national theme of this year’s observance is, “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America.” The City of Killeen looks forward to celebrating the history and culture of Hispanic and Latin-Americans whose contributions are the heart and soul of our nation.
“We will always take the opportunity to pause and recognize the stories and achievements that often go unrecognized,” Mayor Debbie Nash-King said. “We must take time to come together to learn, listen and to celebrate the diversity that makes our city strong.”