Sens. Cavanagh, Camilleri, and Geiss, Rep. Paiz celebrate passage of Senate resolution honoring Latino Michiganders
LANSING, Mich. (Oct. 8, 2024) — Today, the Michigan Senate voted to pass Senate Resolution 142, sponsored by Sen. Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Twp.), to designate Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month in the state of Michigan. This resolution serves as a celebration of the rich histories, cultures, and achievements of Latino Americans in Michigan and across the nation.
“As the youngest Latina ever elected to the Michigan State Senate, I work hard to ensure our voices are not only heard at the table, but that we are leading the conversation as I serve as chair of both policy and budget committees,” said Sen. Cavanagh, Chair of the Michigan Legislative Latino Caucus (MLLC). “Despite the numerous contributions and accomplishments of the Latinx/Hispanic community, too often we are told to hide, be quieter, or take up less space. Representation matters, and I am proud to be this crucial voice in the Legislature to not only represent but to make meaningful investments and to showcase our historically underserved communities.”
“Hispanic Heritage Month holds deep meaning for me as the son of a Latina and Michigan’s youngest Latino legislator. It’s a time to honor the contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities, whose resilience and leadership have shaped our state and nation,” said Sen. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), Vice Chair of the MLLC. “While this month brings attention to our achievements, recognition must continue every day. We’ve made progress, but there’s more work ahead. This is a time to unite, share our stories, and ensure our voices are heard and celebrated year-round.”
Hispanic Heritage Month commemorates the anniversaries of independence for Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. This annual observance uplifts the important achievements of Hispanic Americans, recognizing the economic, cultural, and social contributions they have long brought to the state and nation.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate Latinidad in Michigan,” said Sen. Erika Geiss (D-Taylor). “This is a vibrant, active community, and today the Michigan Senate formally recognized their contributions to our state’s economy, culture, history, and legacy. As the only Afro-Latina member of the Michigan Legislature, I am proud to share in this recognition, as we work to strengthen and celebrate diversity por todos.”
“I’m pleased to see the Senate pass a resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month,” said Rep. Veronica Paiz (D-Harper Woods), Secretary and Treasurer of the MLLC. “As one of the few Hispanics/Latinos in Michigan’s 102nd Legislature, I have a responsibility to represent the diversity of our experiences and perspectives in shaping policy that affects all Michiganders. I plan to proudly and mindfully continue my work toward building an inclusive and equitable future for all.”
Michigan Democrats remain committed to building opportunities to bolster Michigan’s Hispanic communities and supporting the issues and policies most important to Latinx residents.