The Olympia City Council has officially proclaimed September 15 through October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the significant contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities to the city and the nation. This month-long celebration aligns with the Independence Day festivities of several Latin American countries and aims to honor the rich diversity, history, and culture that these communities bring to Olympia.

During the meeting, council members highlighted the transformative impacts of Hispanic and Latinx individuals in various sectors, including art, government, agriculture, education, civil rights, science, and technology. They emphasized the importance of acknowledging both the achievements and the historical injustices faced by these communities, which have persisted over generations.

The proclamation noted that the Hispanic and Latinx population in the United States has reached approximately 65.2 million in 2023, making it the largest racial and ethnic minority group in the country. In Thurston County, this demographic has seen significant growth, increasing from 5% in 2000 to 10% in 2020.

As part of the celebrations, the city will partner with Ultimano Comms Plus to host LulaFest, a community event aimed at celebrating Hispanic and Latinx cultures. Scheduled for September 28, 2024, in downtown Olympia, LulaFest seeks to honor cultural heritage while fostering a vision for a better future.

The council's resolution encourages all residents of Olympia to observe and celebrate the contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities, reaffirming the city's commitment to supporting these populations through policy advocacy and community partnerships. The proclamation was signed by Mayor Pro Tem Eung Wen on September 17, 2024, and was accepted by event producer Miguel Pineda and MC Jose Luis Pineda.