CHICAGO — Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month at the new state government building at 555 W. Monroe St.
The event was an opportunity to reflect on the great achievements of Hispanics and present awards to leaders in the community, including an ultramarathon runner, a popular late legislative staff member and a human rights chair.
“Today, let us take a moment to recognize the contributions of our Hispanic and Latino neighbors,” Frerichs said. “Let’s celebrate their dedication to making our communities a better place to live, work, and raise a family.” Hispanic Heritage Month is a national observance. In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson established a Hispanic Heritage W eek. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded the celebration to a month.
The theme of this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month is “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation.” The theme encourages us to ensure that all voices are represented and welcomed to help build stronger communities and a stronger nation.
Treasurer Frerichs honored the following individuals for their outstanding commitment to their Illinois communities:
Outstanding Service in Business Jose Sanchez President & CEO | Humboldt Park Health Outstanding Service in Leadership Mona Noriega Chair | Illinois Human Rights Commission Outstanding Commitment in Education Dr. Andrea Guerrero Superintendent | Waverly Community Unit School District #6
Outstanding Commitment in Community Service Ivan Gonzalez (posthumous) Chief of Staff | State Sen. Omar Aquino Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official Hon. Omar Aquino Illinois State Senator | 2nd District Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor Mario Lopez Political Director | SEIU Local 1 Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship Edna Jackeline Vazquez Nunez Ultramarathon Runner Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanity Enrique Morales Co-founder | Northwest Arts Connection