Onslow County has officially proclaimed September 15th to October 15th, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the significant contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the community and the nation. The proclamation was presented during a recent government meeting, where Christina Fernandez and Mildred Latino Thompson, leaders of the Onslow Hispanic Latino Association, accepted the honor alongside Laquisha Kaldwalder from Onslow County Parks and Recreation.

The proclamation highlights Onslow County's commitment to celebrating its diverse cultural heritage, noting that the Hispanic and Latino community has played a vital role in the region's growth and prosperity. It emphasizes the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where all cultures are acknowledged and celebrated.

During the meeting, it was noted that Onslow County has been recognized as one of the top five most integrated and culturally diverse communities in the nation. The celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month serves as an opportunity for residents to learn about and appreciate the rich traditions and history of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

In conjunction with the proclamation, the Onslow Hispanic Latino Association announced a series of events to celebrate the month, including a soccer tournament and community grill at Onslow Pines Park on October 12th. The association also reflected on the success of the recent Summer Latin Fiesta, which attracted over 13,000 attendees and featured numerous food vendors.

The meeting underscored the county's dedication to community engagement and cultural appreciation, inviting all residents to participate in the upcoming celebrations.