The Austin City Council has officially proclaimed September 15 to October 15, 2025, as Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the significant contributions of the Latino community to the city and beyond. This proclamation highlights the rich history, diversity, and cultural impact of Latinos, who make up 33% of Austin's population and 40.2% of Texas's residents.

Council member Jose Velasquez emphasized the importance of acknowledging the economic vitality of Latinos, who contribute over $2.7 trillion to the U.S. economy. He noted that Latinos account for 30.6% of the nation's GDP growth, underscoring their role as a driving force in economic development.

The meeting featured passionate remarks from community leaders, including JR Gonzalez from the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce, who called for unity and resilience in the face of rising xenophobic rhetoric. He urged the Latino community to stand together and advocate for their rights, emphasizing the need for civic engagement and leadership.

Paul Saldana, a sixth-generation Austinite, highlighted the growing influence of Latino entrepreneurs, who are expected to own nearly 30% of all Austin businesses by the end of the year. He encouraged both Latino and non-Latino residents to work together as allies to address systemic inequities and foster a more inclusive society.

The proclamation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the Latino community, including threats to civil rights and immigration enforcement practices. However, it also celebrates the resilience and contributions of Latinos, reinforcing their integral role in shaping Austin's identity and future.

As Hispanic Heritage Month approaches, the city of Austin reaffirms its commitment to supporting Latino communities through education, economic opportunities, and civic engagement, ensuring that their voices are heard and valued in the broader narrative of the city.