Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Recognizing Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Proclaim September 15 to October 15, 2026 as Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month.
Report
Issue:
Whether to proclaim September 15 to October 15, 2026 as Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month.
Staff Contact:
Olivia Salazar de Breaux, Culture and Belonging Manager, Parks, Arts and Recreation Department, 360.753.8343
Presenter(s):
Miguel Pineda, Lula Fest LLC
Background and Analysis:
Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month, observed nationally from September 15 to October 15, provides an annual opportunity to recognize and celebrate the culture, heritage, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities to the United States, Washington State, and the City of Olympia.
Olympia has a long-standing commitment to honoring the diversity of its residents and visitors, including supporting inclusive representation in City-sponsored events and activities. In 2023, the City partnered with community leader Miguel Pineda and Ultimano Comms+ to host the first Lula Fest and have continued to sponsor the event. Now in its fourth year, Lula Fest will take place on September 26, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Capitol Theater, hosted by Lula Fest LLC and the Olympia Film Society. Grounded in the vision “Ser audaces al celebrar el pasado cultural, para construir un futuro mejor / Be bold in celebrating the cultural past, in order to build a better future,” the event uplifts Hispanic and Latinx culture and welcomes City employees, elected officials, community members, and visitors.
Olympia’s commitment to inclusion is reflected in the City Council’s 2016 Sanctuary City resolution, affirming that Olympia serves and protects all residents regardless of immigration status and remains a safe haven for those experiencing political persecution.
The proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month is intended to recognize the full experience of Hispanic and Latinx community members. While celebratory in nature, it also acknowledges current circumstances that affect residents today. Removing these references could distance the recognition from the people it seeks to honor.
The language in the proclamation reflects values and commitments the City has already made, centering safety, dignity, belonging, and equitable access to City services. Acknowledging challenges makes the celebration of culture, joy, resilience, and events like Lula Fest even more meaningful, particularly when community members are facing uncertainty or fear.
The proclamation’s stronger language, such as references to harmful policies, family separation, and minimized or erased voices, is an intentional values statement. It affirms that the City recognizes these realities and is committed to supporting and honoring the belonging of Hispanic and Latinx residents in Olympia.
Climate Analysis:
No impacts to any of the climate mitigation sectors.
Equity Analysis:
This recognition raises awareness about the contributions and achievements made by generations of Hispanic and Latinx communities here in the Pacific Northwest and across the nation. This recognition benefits Olympia residents as well as those in neighboring communities by increasing a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Attachments:
Proclamation