Chatham County honors Hispanic Heritage Month with vibrant fiesta

The Chatham County Board of Commissioners officially proclaimed September 15th through October 15th as Hispanic Heritage Month during a recent meeting, recognizing the contributions and cultural significance of Hispanic and Latinx residents in the community. This observance, which began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 and was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1988, encourages public officials and citizens to engage in activities that honor the diverse cultures and traditions of individuals with ancestry from Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

The resolution highlighted the importance of September 15th, marking the independence anniversaries of several Central American countries, and emphasized the growing Hispanic Latinx population in Chatham County, where nearly 47% of Siler City residents identify as Hispanic Latinx. The Board urged residents to participate in local events, including the upcoming 11th Hispanic Heritage Fiesta, scheduled for September 21st at the Shakori Hills Art Center. This family-friendly event will feature live music, dance performances, and numerous vendor booths, fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation.

In addition to the proclamation, the meeting honored Betty Jo Sanders for her 36 years of dedicated service to Chatham County, particularly in her role as Executive Director of the Family Violence and Rape Crisis agency. Sanders was recognized for her significant contributions to supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as her efforts in securing substantial funding for program expansion. The Board expressed gratitude for her leadership and commitment to the community, underscoring her legacy as a moral compass in Chatham County.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve both the Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation and the resolution honoring Sanders, both of which received unanimous support from the commissioners.