Whereas, the Bureau of the Census, in the 2020 Census Report, estimates the Hispanic/Latinx population living in Dutchess County at more that 42,000 people, or 35% of the total population of the County; and

Whereas, under the 2020 Census, there were close to 4,500 or more Hispanic/Latinx residents in the Town of Wappinger, equating to approximately 16% of the Town’s population, which represents a significant growth over the 2010 Census; and

Whereas, Hispanic/Latinx-owned businesses represent the fastest growing segment of small businesses in the United States, with Hispanic/Latinx-owned businesses growing at more than 15 times the national rate; and

Whereas, as of August 2018, more than 28,000,000 Latinx workers represented 17% of the total civilian labor force of the United States, and as a result of Latinx experiencing the fastest population growth of all race and ethnic groups in the Unites States, the rate of Latinx participation in the labor force is expected to grow to 20% by 2024, accounting for one-fifth of the total labor force; and

Whereas, Hispanic/Latinx Americans serve in all branches of the Armed Forces and have fought bravely in every war in the history of the United States; and

Whereas, as of August 2019, at least 688 fatalities in Iraq and Afghanistan were members of the Armed Forces who were Hispanic/Latinx; and

Whereas, Hispanic/Latinx Americans harbor a deep commitment to family and community, an enduring work ethic, and a perseverance to succeed and contribute to society.

Now, therefore be it Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger recognizes the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15, 2023, through October 15, 2023; be it further

Resolved that the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger recognizes the integral role of Hispanic/Latinx peoples and the manifold heritages of Hispanic/Latinx peoples in the economy, culture, and identity of the Wappinger community; be it further

Resolved that the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger urges the people of the Town of Wappinger to observe Hispanic Heritage Month with appropriate programs and activities that celebrate the contributions of the Hispanic/Latinx people to the Town of Wappinger.

Richard L. Thurston, Wappinger Town Supervisor