Pierce County proclaims Sept. 15Oct. 15 Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month; community leaders highlight entrepreneurship and culture

The Pierce County Council and Executive on Sept. 10 proclaimed Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, 2025, as Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month and invited community partners and nonprofit leaders to the dais to mark the observance.

Aidan (Adan) Espino, director of external affairs for MiCentro, thanked Council member Herrera for sponsoring the proclamation and described demographic changes in the countys Hispanic and Latino population. "Being Hispanic and Latino means being American," Espino said, urging shared celebration and inclusion.

Yadira Morales, vice president and development director of the South Sound Latino Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the chambers partnership with Pierce Countys Small Business Accelerator Program and collaborations intended to support Latino entrepreneurs. "Together, we're building a future where Latino entrepreneurs and families thrive," Morales said.

Joy Sauer, chair of the county employee resource group Juntos, described cultural exhibits and an employee newsletter series for Hispanic Heritage Month, and said MiCentro loaned 13 pieces of artwork to be displayed in two county buildings.

Council members praised the proclamation and partnership work with MiCentro and the South Sound Latino Chamber. Council member Ayala reflected on the meaning of a proclamation and urged year-round support for Latino communities rather than limiting recognition to a single month. The council encouraged residents to attend community celebrations, cultural programs and educational events during the observance.

The proclamation records that Hispanic and Latino Americans represent more than 12% of Pierce County residents and highlights the historical span of the observance, which begins Sept. 15 to align with independence anniversaries in several Latin American countries.