During a recent city council meeting, members honored the Minneapolis Fire Department for their dedication and service, while also commemorating Latino Heritage Month. Council member Chavez, alongside other officials, presented a resolution recognizing the bravery of firefighters and remembering those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The Minneapolis Fire Department, established in 1879, currently has 434 active duty firefighters who responded to over 58,000 calls in 2023, with a significant portion involving rescue and emergency medical services. Notably, there have been no firefighter fatalities in the line of duty in 2023 or 2024, a testament to the department's commitment to safety. The resolution declared September 29, 2024, as Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service Day, honoring the 243 Minnesota firefighters who have died since 1881.

Fire Chief Tyner expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the resilience and dedication of the firefighters who face numerous challenges daily, including fires and hazardous incidents. Council members acknowledged the importance of appreciating first responders, highlighting the emotional and physical toll the job can take on them and their families.

In addition to honoring firefighters, the council celebrated Latino Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15. The resolution recognized the contributions of the Latino community in Minneapolis, which comprises nearly 9% of the city's population, and highlighted notable figures such as Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina astronaut, and Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina Supreme Court justice.

The council's resolutions aim to uplift and honor the contributions of both the firefighting community and the Latino community, reinforcing the city's commitment to recognizing diverse histories and sacrifices.