Bill S-228

2nd Session, 41st Parliament,

62-63-64 Elizabeth II, 2013-2014-2015

senate of canada

BILL S-228

An Act respecting Hispanic Heritage Month

Whereas, according to the 2011 National Household Survey, 544,375 individuals in Canada reported Latin, Central and South American and another 368,305 individuals reported Spanish as their ethnic origin, and 873,395 individuals identified Spanish as the non-official language spoken at home;

Whereas the Parliament of Canada recognizes that the Hispanic-Canadian community has made valuable contributions to the social, economic, political and multicultural fabric of Canada, and the designation of a Hispanic Heritage Month would be a meaningful way to remember, celebrate and educate the public about these contributions;

Whereas a Hispanic Heritage Month would also provide national opportunities for the Hispanic-Canadian community to share and promote their unique culture and traditions with all Canadians;

And whereas October is a significant month for the Hispanic community around the world;

Now, therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows:

SHORT TITLE

1. This Act may be cited as the Hispanic Heritage Month Act.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

2. Throughout Canada, in each and every year, the month of October is to be known as “Hispanic Heritage Month”.