Park Forest-(ENEWSPF)- During a particularly caustic, xenophobic political season, it was particularly gratifying to watch as Park Forest, by resolution, observed National Hispanic Heritage Month.
According to the agenda memo on this proclamation from Village Manager Tom Mick, “the 2010 US Census results showed the Hispanic heritage population to be 6.4% of the overall community.” Estimates by the census bureau estimate that “Park Forest’s Hispanic population has now grown to 7.6% of the overall population as of 2015,” according to the memo.
The resolution passed by the village board follows:
WHEREAS, the Park Forest Commission on Human Relations was established to support the Village’s Racial Diversity Program and has been entrusted to be aware of human relations issues locally, nationally and worldwide; and
WHEREAS, in 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic American Heritage Week and this observance was expanded in 1988 to a month-long celebration; and
WHEREAS, during this month, Americans celebrate the traditions, ancestry, and unique experiences of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, the countries of Central and South America, and the Caribbean; and
WHEREAS in the Hispanic world, religion has traditionally played a significant role in daily activity. The church influences family life and community affairs, giving spiritual meaning to the Hispanic culture; and
WHEREAS, throughout our history, Hispanic Americans have enriched the American way of life and we recognize the millions of Hispanic Americans whose love of family, hard work and community have helped unite us as a nation; and
WHEREAS, the Park Forest Commission on Human Relations encourages residents to participate in National Hispanic American Heritage Month celebrations in their schools and workplaces; and
WHEREAS, during National Hispanic American Heritage Month, the Village of Park Forest joins with all Americans in celebrating this rich and diverse culture and encourage all citizens to recognize the important role of Hispanics in creating and building this great nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Village of Park Forest, Cook and Will Counties, that Park Forest residents be called upon to observe September 15 – October 15, 2016 as National Hispanic American Heritage Month in Park Forest.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Mayor and Board of Trustees encourage the Park Forest Commission on Human Relations to participate in various celebrations and recognitions of National Hispanic Heritage Month in the days ahead.
