PVUSD Approves Latino Heritage Month Resolution

From PVUSD: On Wednesday September 12, the Board of Trustees of Pajaro Valley Unified School District approved the annual resolution promoting contributions of Latinos to the history of the United States. “With this resolution, PVUSD continues its commitment to honor Latino Heritage during this month, to promote equity and diversity through art, literature, and to celebrate the diversity within the Latino community. PVUSD is dedicated to developing cultural competency as represented in our efforts through the District’s Ethnic Studies Committee and introduction of our new Ethnic Studies courses at the high school level,” stated Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, Superintendent. During Hispanic Heritage Month, our District recognize the important contributions made by Hispanic and Latino Americans and celebrate their heritage and culture.

Board President Leslie DeRose stated, “PVUSD is fortunate in that we have a diverse community with many cultures to celebrate. With this resolution, we hope to inspire our students and staff to celebrate the richness and heritage of the Latino culture during Latino Heritage Month.”

Acknowledging Latino and Hispanic contributions and accomplishments began in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson through the Hispanic Heritage Week. President Ronald Reagan expanded it in 1988 to cover a 30-day period beginning September 15. This year marks the 30th anniversary of National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15— October 15), a month-long recognition of the many contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to our country. In honor of the anniversary of Independence Day for five Latin American countries, September 15th was chosen as the official kickoff day for this important month.

The resolution honors the strength and diversity that Latinos have brought to our Nation, our community. In current times, as education and many other professional fields in our society look at systems through equity lenses, this resolution promotes ethnic consciousness and honors the historical contributions of Latinos and Hispanics to this Nation. Our pluriversal community makes our District strong and sharing of common experiences highlights the richness in our diversity.

This month we invite our community to reflect on the countless ways in which Latino writers, singers, and musicians have enriched our arts and humanities; on how innovative entrepreneurs have steered our economy; how scientists and engineers have revolutionized our ways of life and are making sweeping new discoveries; and how advocates have lead the way for social and political change. PVUSD is proud to reaffirm our commitment to expanding opportunity and building an ever-brighter future for all.

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