Prince William Board of County Supervisors Recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month

Prince William Board of County Supervisors recently proclaimed Sept. 15 – Oct. 15, 2022, as Hispanic Heritage Month in Prince William County.

Every year, U.S. Congress authorizes the President of the United States to issue a proclamation designating the month to celebrate how the achievements of Hispanics throughout the United States have enriched the country’s culture and society. 

As a community, Hispanics are an example of a community of faith with strong family values, hard work ethic and patriotism. Hispanics have made innumerable contributions as leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, musicians, artists, athletes, scientists, public servants, elected officials, diplomats, teachers, law enforcement officers, engineers, astronauts and members of the nation’s armed forces.

According to the 2020 United States Census, Hispanics account for approximately 25.2% of Prince William County’s population and 18.7% of the country’s population, which makes them the biggest minority in both Prince William County and the United States.

Hispanics contribute to the diversity of Prince William County, with a rich history of different cultures and racial make-ups within Hispanic communities.

Though disproportionally affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Hispanics continued working high-risk jobs in the service and manufacturing industries to help keep the local economy functioning. Hispanics also fought on the front lines of the pandemic as the lab technicians, doctors and nurses who cared for victims’ health.

The board’s proclamation urged Prince William County residents to join and support celebrations of the rich heritage of the county’s Hispanic workforce and residents.