Alaska to recognize Hispanic Heritage Month under new law
Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, D-Anchorage, leaves the floor of the Alaska Senate on Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)
By Corinne Smith
Alaska will recognize Hispanic Heritage Month under a new law signed by Gov. Mike Dunleavy.
The month recognizing Hispanic heritage will be September 15 to October 15 each year. The legislation encourages schools, community groups and other public and private organizations to honor the history and culture of Hispanic Americans.
Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, D-Anchorage, is the bill’s sponsor, and said in a statement that the month is a time to honor and celebrate “the rich cultural tapestry that Hispanic and Latino Americans have woven into the fabric of our nation.”
There was no bill signing ceremony. A spokesperson for Dunleavy’s office said the governor signed the bill to acknowledge those contributions. “He believes it is important to recognize the rich traditions, history, and achievements of Hispanic Americans,” said Jeff Turner, Dunleavy’s communications director, by email Tuesday.
The period also marks the anniversary of the independence of several Central American countries from Spain, including Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Mexico.
“While Alaska may seem distant from the heart of Latin America, the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Alaskans to our state’s history, culture, and economy are undeniable. From pioneers and settlers to artists, educators, and business leaders, Hispanic and Latino individuals have made significant impacts in every corner of our state,” Gray-Jackson wrote.
Gray-Jackson said in an interview Tuesday her goal since being elected to the Alaska Senate was to spearhead recognition of diverse cultures in Alaska by enshrining them in law. Since 2019, she’s sponsored legislation to recognize Black History Month, Alaska Native Heritage Month, Filipino American History Month, Juneteenth and Women’s History Month, which passed last year. She said next she’d like to see June recognized as LGBTQ Pride month.
“All it takes is one person to begin the effort, and that one person happens to be me,” Gray-Jackson said. “And I’m grateful for all the support that I’ve gotten since 2019 and, No. 1 when it comes to our very diverse communities, I’m just really proud to welcome our neighbors to Alaska who enrich our communities.”
“I see them; I value them,” she added. “I appreciate their contributions to not only our community, but to the world.”
The law will take effect on August 6.
(This article was republished under Creative Commons courtesy of the Alaska Beacon)