WHEREAS, America’s cultural diversity has always been a great strength of our Nation; the Hispanic-American community has a long and important history of commitment to our Nation’s core values; and

WHEREAS, in 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, and this observance was expanded in 1988 to a month-long celebration honoring our Nation’s Hispanic heritage; and

 WHEREAS, during this time we celebrate traditions, ancestry, and unique backgrounds of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean; and

WHEREAS, Hispanic Americans have served in the military with devotion and dedication since our founding and have taken their rightful place as heroes in our Nation’s history; and

WHEREAS, as we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, we applaud the accomplishments of Hispanic Americans and recognize their many contributions to our great land;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JIM GIBBONS, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim September, 2008 as,

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH