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Batavia proclaims National Hispanic Heritage Month, community members accept proclamation
Summary
The council proclaimed Sept. 15–Oct. 15 National Hispanic Heritage Month for Batavia and invited members of the local Hispanic and Latin American community to accept the proclamation and speak; the council approved the proclamation by unanimous voice vote (12–0, 2 absent).
Batavia — The Batavia City Council on Sept. 15 issued a proclamation recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15–Oct. 15) and invited local Hispanic and Latin American residents and business owners to accept the document and speak.
The proclamation acknowledges the cultural and civic contributions of residents whose families trace roots to Spanish‑speaking countries, Latin America and the Caribbean. It notes Sept. 15’s link to independence anniversaries for several Latin American nations and highlights local Hispanic‑owned businesses, educators and city employees. The document named Charles Chemis (identified in remarks as a long‑time city water foreman and U.S. Army veteran) and referred to his tradition of decorating a holiday tree with red lights.
Why it matters: The proclamation is a civic recognition of cultural contributions and a signal of the city’s intention to share community resources and rights‑awareness information. Speakers at the meeting urged residents to be aware of rapid‑response resources for immigration enforcement and to support local Hispanic‑owned businesses and educators.
Voices at the ceremony: Family members of the late Charles Chemis accepted the proclamation; one family member said, “We all stayed here because we love Batavia.” Hugo Saltagier, manager of Valley Sheltered Workshop, and several local business owners and educators addressed the council, describing family histories, military service and the value of representation in schools. A teacher, Jennifer Melendez (read into the record), identified herself as one of the district’s few Hispanic educators and said minority representation in education “is so important and vital.”
Formal action: A council motion to approve the proclamation passed by recorded voice/roll call: 12 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent.
Discussion vs. decision: The proclamation was ceremonial and did not create new municipal policy or funding. Councilors and community members used the occasion to highlight local resources and to encourage residents to call the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights Rapid Response Network if they believe Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity is in the area (phone number referenced in meeting: 855‑HELP‑MY‑FAMILY).
Next steps and context: Community leaders present asked for continued outreach, volunteer support for legal‑rights information and recognition of Hispanic‑owned downtown businesses. City staff and councilors encouraged celebration and civic engagement during the month.
