The Gloucester Township Council paused its regular business on Monday, Sept. 22, to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino residents to inspire others to achieve success.
Council President Orlando Mercado led the meeting, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the township’s diversity and the impact of Hispanic heritage on the community. Gloucester Township has been celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month since 2006.
This year’s theme was Collective Heritage, honoring the past, inspiring the future. “Hispanic Heritage Month is not just about celebration,” Mercado said. “It is about reflection, acknowledgment, and appreciation for the many ways Hispanic and Latino families enrich our township.”
“More than 62 million people are of Hispanic or Latin culture,” stated Mercado.
Hispanic Heritage Month holds special significance nationwide. The observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to a month-long celebration, running each year from September 15 to October 15. The starting date was chosen because it coincides with the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico celebrates its independence on Sept. 16, followed by Chile on Sept. 18.
The month provides an opportunity to honor the rich cultural traditions of Hispanic and Latino communities while recognizing their enduring contributions to the United States.
During the meeting, a formal proclamation was read into the record, highlighting the achievements of Hispanic Americans in areas ranging from education and public service to business and the arts. Council members joined Mercado in thanking local Hispanic organizations and residents for their contributions to Gloucester Township’s cultural fabric.
The evening also featured guest presentations that showcased Hispanic culture through music, storytelling, and community reflection. Residents and leaders alike spoke about the importance of preserving traditions, uplifting youth, and building bridges between cultures.
Council members underscored a commitment to fostering inclusivity year-round, not only during heritage observances.
“We are proud of the diversity in Gloucester Township,” Mercado noted. “It is what makes our community strong.”
The celebration concluded with encouragement for residents to participate in upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month events across the region, from cultural performances to educational workshops.
Mercado reminded attendees that honoring heritage is an ongoing commitment.
“This is a month of celebration, but it is also a call to action for unity, respect, and recognition,” he said.
