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248-10 September 28, 2010 RESOLUTION Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrating the heritage and culture of Latinos in the United States and their immense contributions to the Nation. Whereas, from September 15, 2010, through October 15, 2010, the United States celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month; Whereas, the Census Bureau estimates the Hispanic population in the United States at almost 47,800,000 people, making Hispanic Americans the largest ethnic minority within the United States; Whereas, 1 in 5 United States public school students is Hispanic, and the total number of Hispanic students enrolled in public schools in the United States is expected to reach 28,000,000 by 2050; Whereas, the purchasing power of Hispanic Americans is nearly $1,000,000,000,000, and there are more than 2,300,000 Hispanic-owned firms in the United States, supporting millions of employees nationwide and greatly contributing to the economic sector, especially retail trade, wholesale trade, food services, and construction; Whereas, Hispanic Americans serve in all branches of the Armed Forces and have bravely fought in every war in the history of the United States; Whereas, more than 28,000 Hispanics currently serve with distinction in Afghanistan and Iraq; Whereas, 140,000 Hispanic soldiers served in the Korean War; Whereas, more than 80,000 Hispanics served in the Vietnam War, representing 5.5 percent of individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country in that conflict although they comprised only 4.5 percent of the United States population at the time; Whereas, as of August 7, 2010, 561 United States military fatalities in Iraq and Afghanistan have been Hispanic; Whereas, as of September 30, 2009, there were approximately 1,332,033 Hispanic veterans of the Armed Forces; Whereas, 41 Hispanic Americans have received the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the United States Armed Forces; Whereas, Hispanic Americans are dedicated public servants, holding posts at the highest levels of government, including 1 seat on the Supreme Court, 1 seat in the Senate, 28 seats in the House of Representatives, and 2 seats in the Cabinet; and Whereas, Hispanic Americans harbor a deep commitment to family and community, an enduring work ethic, and a perseverance to succeed

ats in the House of Representatives, and 2 seats in the Cabinet; and Whereas, Hispanic Americans harbor a deep commitment to family and community, an enduring work ethic, and a perseverance to succeed and contribute to society: Now, Therefore, Be it Resolved, that the Township Council of the Township of West Orange urges the people of the Township to observe Hispanic Heritage Month with appropriate programs and activities that appreciate the cultural contributions of Latinos to American life. Karen J. Carnevale, Municipal Clerk Sal M. Anderton, Council President Adopted: September 28, 2010PDFtext