The City of Wilmington officially launched Hispanic Heritage Month on September 15, celebrating the contributions of the Latin American community. The kickoff event took place at the Latin American Community Center, where city officials recognized local unsung heroes who have made significant impacts in the community.

Council member Maria Cabrera highlighted the importance of acknowledging individuals who work behind the scenes, specifically honoring Alicia Dominguez for her dedication to community service. Dominguez, who has been involved in various initiatives, including immigration support and volunteer work at Saint Paul's, received formal recognition during the meeting. Cabrera emphasized the collaborative efforts between Dominguez and the city to stabilize neighborhoods, particularly in the Lower Hilltop area.

The council passed a resolution commemorating National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15, and encourages residents to participate in activities that celebrate the vital role of Latinos in the economy, politics, and culture of the nation. The resolution also acknowledges the historical significance of this month, marking the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries.

In her acceptance speech, Dominguez expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed her commitment to empowering the Latino community through education, advocacy, and partnerships. She highlighted the various services offered by the Latin American Community Center, including ESL programs, support for victims of crime, and financial literacy initiatives.

The city council's recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month underscores the ongoing efforts to honor and uplift the contributions of the Latino community in Wilmington and beyond.