Montgomery County Council issues proclamations honoring Caribbean American Heritage, Gun Violence Awareness and Immigrant Heritage Month

The Montgomery County Council on June 9 presented proclamations recognizing Caribbean American Heritage Month, National Gun Violence Awareness Month and Immigrant Heritage Month, honoring local leaders and urging community action.

Council President Natalie Fanny Gonzales opened the meeting and introduced Councilmember Lori Ann Sales to lead the Caribbean American Heritage Month recognition. Sales described the observance as ‘‘deeply personal’’ and noted it marks a 20th anniversary of recognition for the diaspora. Community leaders from Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad and elsewhere introduced themselves and described cultural and civic contributions to the county. ‘‘We are so appreciative of everyone who uplifts and cares for the Caribbean diaspora,’’ Sales said as the council read the proclamation and posed for a photo.

Councilmember Sales also led a proclamation marking National Gun Violence Awareness Month and the Wear Orange movement. Chair Sydney Katz, speaking for the Health and Human Services and Public Safety committees, said gun injuries remain ‘‘one of the most pressing public health and public safety challenges’’ and flagged an increase in ghost guns and illegal modifications recovered locally. ‘‘We must continue to commit to reducing gun violence and keep guns out of the hands of people who wish to do us harm,’’ Katz said.

The council heard personal testimony from survivors and advocates. Venice Mundell Harvey, who said her family was ‘‘changed forever’’ by a homicide, urged continued support for prevention and survivor services. Celeste Iroha, founder of Enough of Gun Violence, described both personal loss and work on prevention and treatment. Mary Beth Hastings, survivor membership lead for Montgomery County Moms Demand Action, recalled the origin of Wear Orange and said the color ‘‘is a reminder to listen to survivors who lead this movement.’’ Fifteen-year-old Laurenjani (AJ) English of Students Demand Action urged the county to turn awareness into action so young people can feel safe at school.

The council also read a proclamation recognizing Immigrant Heritage Month and invited representatives from the Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center, We Are CASA, Montgomery Sister Cities and other organizations to outline services that connect immigrants to county resources. Julian Labiche of the Gilchrist Center said the office works to make services ‘‘easier, clearer, and more welcoming’’ and emphasized partnerships with community groups.

Procedural business followed the proclamations. The council approved several supplemental appropriations for capital and operating budgets and recessed to continue regular agenda items.

The proclamations were ceremonial; several sponsors and community members said they hope the recognition will be followed by continued policy and program support such as violence-prevention partnerships and immigrant services.