Proclamation

W h e r e a s,

the City of Springfield takes great pride in flying the Puerto Rican flag to celebrate the
culture, history and achievements of the Puerto Rican Community; and

W h e r e a s,

the Puerto Rican community in Springfield was established in the 1940s and is now
home to about 50,000 Puerto Ricans and their descendants who have worked hard establishing businesses and
home ownership; and

W h e r e a s,

2014 marks the twenty-eighth anniversary celebration of Puerto Rican Heritage Month
in Springfield and especially recognizes the positive impact that the Puerto Rican community has had upon the
social, cultural and economic development of this city, state and nation; and

W h e r e a s, members of the Puerto Rican community demonstrate a strong work ethic and
tremendous perseverance that have enabled them to realize many accomplishments and find continued
success. Such diligence has enabled them to improve their lives and communities, making our city and state a
better place for all to live; and

W h e r e a s, Puerto Ricans have long made ultimate sacrifices and have served their nation and
homeland by their participation in World War I, World War II, Korea, the Vietnam War and all major conflicts,
especially the 65th Infantry Regiment .

Therefore, I, Domenic J. Sarno, Mayor

Of the City of Springfield, do hereby proclaim

Wednesday, November 19, 2014 as

Puerto Rican Heritage Day

in the great City of Springfield, and I urge all our citizens to be aware
of this flag raising event sponsored by the Puerto Rican Cultural
Center and participate fittingly in its observance.

___________________________________________
DOMENIC J. SARNO, MAYOR