City recognizes Latino Heritage Month, honors Carlos Montes and artist Francisco Letelier

The City Council officially recognized Latino Heritage Month during a chamber presentation that included awards to two community figures and the unveiling of the Department of Cultural Affairs’ 2025 Latino Heritage Month calendar and cultural guide.

Councilmember Hernandez (serving as this year’s Madrina for Latino Heritage Month) opened the presentation and framed the month’s theme as “Viva La Resistencia,” saying the observance honors “resistance and joy in a time of peril.” The council presented a certificate to Carlos Montes, identified in the meeting as a cofounder of the Brown Berets and a longtime Chicano activist; Montes spoke about continuing activism and community organizing.

Daniel Turica, identified as General Manager of the Department of Cultural Affairs, introduced Francisco Letelier (the transcript spells the artist’s name as Francisco Letelier), the artist who created the calendar’s cover illustration titled “The Singer.” Letelier described the artwork’s inspiration in part as solidarity built through arts and culture; he referenced repression after Chile’s 1973 coup and said art helped Chileans build the movements that returned the country to democracy. Letelier’s cover was presented to the council and the artist was recognized on behalf of the city.

Councilmembers also promoted Bridge Gallery’s “Viva La Resistencia” exhibition and encouraged public attendance at Latino Heritage Month events such as El Grito, noting it as an annual community celebration.

The transcript shows ceremonial recognitions, remarks about history and resistance, and a public unveiling of the cultural guide; there was no recorded vote, ordinance, or budget action tied to the recognitions at the meeting.