Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus proclaimed Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in the City of Auburn during the council meeting on Sept. 19.

Backus read a proclamation describing the importance of recognizing Hispanic heritage in Auburn before passing the microphone to members of Auburn’s Hispanic community.

“This month-long celebration recognizes the valuable contributions and special opportunity for public and private organizations, business, the arts and education to focus on the many Hispanic Americans whose lives have shaped our common history and heritage,” Backus said.

It is imperative for the Auburn community to embrace diversity so that all children can see themselves in our nation’s future, Backus said. After reading the proclamation, Backus then gave the proclamation to Leticia Figueroa, who was there with her daughters Elyanna and Leylani Ostis. Figueroa then said a few words to accept the proclamation.

“First of all, I just want to thank everybody and Mayor Backus for this beautiful proclamation,” Figueroa said. “As some of you may know, there are 33 Latin American countries, so we are a melting pot, and we get to celebrate the diversity of our cultures this month. And we’re very just grateful for the opportunity and the blessing that is to be able to be a part of this city. So thank you.”

Nelda Trujillo and her daughter, Adriana, were also present during the proclamation. Trujillo said it’s been a long time coming and thanked the city for taking the time to recognize the Latino community.

Mark Zeigler, the principal of Gildo Rey Elementary School, also spoke to the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month.

“As the principal of Gildo Rey Elementary, it’s critically important to recognize the accomplishments and the gifts that each of these individuals bring to our community,” Zeigler said. “Our children need more representation in this great culture, and thank you for recognizing the important accomplishments that this community has brought to our city.”