The town of Pittsboro, North Carolina, officially proclaimed September 15th through October 15th as Hispanic Heritage Month during a recent government meeting. This observance honors the contributions and culture of Hispanic and Latino communities, which have played a vital role in the local economy and social fabric.

The proclamation highlights the historical significance of the dates, marking the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile, and Belize. The observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week and was expanded to a month-long celebration by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.

Mayor Kyle Shipp emphasized the importance of recognizing the diverse backgrounds within the Hispanic and Latinx communities, which include individuals of various ethnicities and languages. According to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau data, approximately 13.6% of Chatham County's population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, with notable concentrations in Pittsboro and Siler City.

Eileen Sotelo, the advocacy coordinator with the Hispanic liaison, expressed gratitude for the proclamation and announced the upcoming 11th Annual Hispanic Heritage Fiesta, scheduled for September 21st at the Shaquarie Arts Center. The event will feature a variety of activities, including children's plays, a parade, food, and live performances, inviting the community to celebrate and engage with Hispanic culture.

The proclamation and the planned festivities aim to foster understanding and appreciation of the Hispanic and Latino communities in Pittsboro, encouraging residents to participate in the upcoming events.