Senators Garcia, Hammerstrom, Sikkema, Kuipers, Johnson, Stamas, Jelinek, Cropsey, Goschka, Hardiman, McManus, Birkholz, Cassis, Allen, Van Woerkom, Toy, Gilbert, Bishop, George, Brown, Cherry, Schauer, Bernero, Jacobs, Brater and Thomas offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 74.

A resolution to recognize September 15, 2005, through October 15, 2005, as Hispanic Heritage Month.

            Whereas, Spanish-speaking people have brought to our nation the gifts of law, religion, agriculture, art, music, education, technology, architecture, cuisine, theater, and exploration; and

            Whereas, Michigan is fortunate to count among its population a large concentration of citizens of Spanish and Latin American descent--including those who have lived in Michigan for generations and those who are new to the Great Lakes State--who contribute to Michigan’s economy and society through their commitment to professions, commerce, family, and the arts; and

            Whereas, Time and again throughout our nation’s history, Hispanic Americans have faithfully defended the principles of freedom and representative government, and indeed, 41 Hispanic Americans have earned the nation’s highest honor, the Congressional Medal of Honor; and

            Whereas, During the month spanning from September 15 - October 15, Michigan’s Hispanic-American community will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through a series of special programs featuring Hispanic history, food, dance, and art; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby recognize the month of September 15, 2005, through October 15, 2005, as Hispanic Heritage Month in the state of Michigan. We encourage all citizens to recognize and applaud the many contributions made by these individuals to enhance the quality of life in this state.