SAMU First Response was honored to be invited and attend a special Hispanic Heritage month Proclamation Ceremony on Tuesday, September 24th on behalf of the Fairfax County Government. This event provided the opportunity to recognize and appreciate the diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions of the Hispanic community in the DMV area.

The ceremony began with some refreshments where local organizations were able to network and share with each other the outstanding work that they are currently doing with the Hispanic community in Fairfax County, VA. Some of the organizations in attendance were CASA Virginia, Centreville immigration Forum, Edu-Futoro, Consulates of various countries, HACAN, Juntos por Virgina, Meyer Foundation, Second Story, The Womens Center, and many others. The Board of Supervisors meeting at the Fairfax County Government held a panelist of speakers highlighted the importance of cultural representation in all areas of the communities that they serve. Jeffrey C. McKay who is Chairman said that “If we are not doing it in a culturally competent way, then we are not reaching those who need to be reached.”

The Hispanic community is the fasted growing demographic in Fairfax County and currently 200,000 Hispanic Americans call it home. The panelists highlighted the outstanding work that local organizations are doing to make sure that individuals are being reached in the way that they need to be. SAMU First Response celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the work that individuals have contributed to the community.