Governor Stein Proclaims Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month

Hispanic And Latino Heritage Month 

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month is celebrated each year from September 15 to October 15; and the month-long celebration provides more time to properly recognize the important contributions Hispanic and Latino Americans make in strengthening the United States; and 

Whereas, throughout September, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua celebrate the anniversaries of their independence; and 

Whereas, in 2025, Governor Josh Stein established the Advisory Council on Latino Affairs through Executive Order 27, to advise on matters affecting the Latino population in North Carolina; the Council supports state efforts to enhance cooperation and understanding, promote opportunities, identify challenges, and recommend solutions; and

Whereas, Latinos in North Carolina are integral to the growth and development of our state, contributing to the vibrant and inclusive fabric of North Carolina through their rich cultural heritage and linguistic diversity; bolstering the economy as business leaders, entrepreneurs, and artists; cultivating strong industries in agriculture, manufacturing, construction, research and development, finance, technology, and more; enriching our education and health care systems; participating in public service and civic affairs; and serving as leaders in our communities; and 

Whereas, the state’s Latino population has increased 40 percent over the past decade – the largest increase of any other ethnic group in the state; and Latino residents number more than 1.1 million and represent 20 percent of our youth; and

Whereas, the State of North Carolina is proud of our diverse population and encourages celebrates our Latino and Hispanic communities;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim September 15 – October 15, 2026, as “Hispanic And Latino Heritage Month” in North Carolina and commend its observance.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this fifteenth day of September in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fifty-first.