Antioch Council recognizes Sept. 15- Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month
During their meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, the Antioch City Council on a vote of 4-0, with District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha absent while attending the California League of Cities conference, approve the following proclamation declaring September 15 through October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month, in alignment with the National Hispanic American Heritage Month.
WHEREAS, the observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson, and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15, 2026, and ending on October 15, 2026;
WHEREAS, every year since 1988, from September 15th to October 15th, our country has celebrated Hispanic culture & contributions to our community and nation by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and
Central and South America;
WHEREAS, we begin the observance on September 15th, because it is the anniversary of independence or Independence Day for Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively;
WHEREAS, the theme for 2026 is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” highlights the transformative contributions of Hispanic Americans and encourages individuals and organizations to explore how Hispanic culture continues to influence a more inclusive and innovative future. It emphasizes leadership, creativity, and community engagement across generation; and
WHEREAS, throughout the year, we honor the collective contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans in our history, while uplifting the voices and service of those who continue to shape our communities.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RON BERNAL, Mayor of the City of Antioch, hereby proclaim that September 15, 2026, through October 15, 2026, is “Hispanic Heritage Month” and encourage all residents to use this time to reflect on the rich culture, history, and contributions of Latino and Hispanic peoples to the enrichment of the City of Antioch.
SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
RON BERNAL, Mayor
the attachments to this post:
ACC 092226 Proclamation Hispanic Heritage Month header
Hispanic Heritage Month 7-4-26 AH
