The Marin County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution Sept. 30 proclaiming Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 as Latin American Heritage Month, accompanied by performances and remarks from local artists and community organizations.

Karina Ramirez Cortez, arts and culture coordinator at the Multicultural Center of Marin, described a civic-center gallery show she curated featuring more than 20 artists from the Hispanic and Latino communities and framed arts support as vital to mental health and community resilience. "Supporting artists means supporting the cultural traditions that shape and enrich our lives," Ramirez Cortez said.

Other presenters included Cindy Palencia, a county Community Development Department employee and member of the Multicultural Center of Marin leadership; Martha Cruz, an MCLA leader who highlighted that 18.8% of Marin's population identifies as Latino; and performers from Torgos Convos Music Academy, including student singers Gabriela and Julieta.

County partnerships: Chief Probation Officer Marlon Washington told the board that probation brings community resources into its programs, including Parent Project courses offered in Spanish, while District Attorney's Office representatives noted the office's Spanish-speaking victim-witness advocates.

Why it matters: Speakers framed the resolution as recognition of cultural contributions — from immigrant labor in construction trades to arts and community-building activities — and as a signal of belonging amid concerns about national anti-immigrant sentiment. Supervisors praised the Multicultural Center of Marin's exhibitions and county staff partnerships and encouraged public attendance at related events including Dia de Muertos on Nov. 1 at the Alberoborough Community Center.

Board action: Supervisor Lukin moved the resolution; Supervisor Rodoni seconded. The motion carried unanimously. The board invited presenters forward for a photo with the adopted resolution.