WHEREAS, in 1968 President Lyndon Johnson started Hispanic Heritage Week which was later expanded to cover a 30-day period under President Ronald Reagan in 1988; and

WHEREAS, September 15^this 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^th and September 18^th, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12^th, falls within this 30-day period; and

WHEREAS, St. Johns County has deep historical ties to Hispanic culture most notably with the arrival of Spaniards and later Cubans; and

WHEREAS, St. Johns County has deep historical ties to Hispanic culture, beginning with the founding of the City of St. Augustine in 1565 by the Spaniards, followed in later decades by Hispanics from across South America, contributing to the rich cultural fabric of the community; and that the Hispanic community of St. Johns County has doubled from 2010 to 2020, reflecting the continued growth and influence of Hispanic residents in St. Johns County; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Board of County Commissioners of St. Johns County, that September 15^th through October 15^th, 2025, was designated as

National Hispanic Heritage Month

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of St. Johns County, Florida this 21^st day of October 2025.