Backup Documents 10/11/2016 Item # 4A PROCLAMATIONg,
WHEREAS, during National Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize the contributions made and the
important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States, and celebrate their
heritage and culture; and,
WHEREAS, Hispanics have had and continue to have a profound and positive influence on our country
through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work and service. They have enhanced
and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and
multicultural customs of their community; and,
WHEREAS, Collier County resident Victor A. Valdes advocated for human and civil rights and freedom of
speech more than 50 years while in Cuba. And before he came to the United States in 1979,
he spent almost 10 years as a political prisoner; and,
WHEREAS, Once he came to the United States, Mr. Valdes founded "Las Naciones Newspaper, "which is
part of the Cuban Heritage Collection, dedicated to the protection of human and civil rights;
and,
WHEREAS, Mr. Valdes continues to be involved in groups and organizations that promote Hispanic Affairs
in our community, including hosting "Agarrando el Toro por los Cuernos, "an investigative
journalism television program; and serving as founder and president of the Collier County
Hispanic Affairs Advisory Board, president of the Collier County Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce. He is the chairman and founder of the Multicultural Alliance of Collier County and
served on the League of United Latin American Citizens'National Civil Rights Commission; and,
WHEREAS, As a refugee or U.S. citizen, Victor Valdes continued his defense for those not able to raise
their own voices; and,
WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month, with roots going back to 1968, begins every year on September 15,
the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador,
Guatamala, Hondouras and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile and Belize also celebrate their
independence days during this period and Columbus Day (Dia de la Roza) is October 12; and,
WHEREAS, During Hispanic Heritage Month, it is only proper to recognize Mr. Victor Valdes and his
contributions to this community.
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed that the Collier County Board of County Commissioners hereby proclaims
October 11, 2016, as
VICTOR A. VALDES DAY IN COLLIER COUNTY
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 27th Day of September 2016.
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(c10 A , BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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