In June 1968, California Congressman George E. Brown first introduced the idea of a commemorative week to celebrate and recognize the important contributions to American society from those with Hispanic roots.

Months later, Congress would ask the president to recognize Hispanic Heritage Week yearly, something which President Lyndon B. Johnson did with a presidential proclamation.

Twenty years later, President Ronald Reagan prolonged the celebration to National Hispanic Heritage Month.

On Sept. 14, approval was given to a resolution presented by Lehigh County Commissioner Antonio Pineda that Lehigh County commissioners recognize and honor National Hispanic Heritage Month in the Lehigh Valley from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.

As Pineda told his fellow commissioners 28% of the Lehigh Valley has Hispanic roots.

He made the point of how important it is to recognize and celebrate the contributions these individuals have made in the Lehigh Valley.

In other matters, Lehigh County Coroner Dan Buglio addressed the board.

He said 47 lives have been lost so far from suicide in 2022.

Buglio made the point his office actively works to help those suffering from the loss of a loved one from suicide.

“It’s heartbreaking,” he told commissioners.

The numbers for Pennsylvania are eye-opening, with data showing one person dies by suicide every four hours.

As part of the county’s resolution recognizing September as Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, commissioners invited Buglio to speak during the Sept. 14 meeting.

This led to a discussion among commissioners on the importance of focusing on mental health and letting individuals who are in need of help know how important it is to seek assistance.

Commissioner Geoff Brace said a collective effort must be made to raise awareness on this important issue. He added we must all treat mental health with the same importance as physical health.

Commissioner Bob Elbich reminded everyone suicide rates among first responders are higher than average and most of these individuals are volunteers.

Commissioner Jeffrey Dutt added there is also a high suicide rate among veterans who need help.

Residents are reminded 988 is the new National Suicide Prevention Hotline for anyone needing help and facing some type of distress.

Operation Green Light for Veterans in Lehigh County will take place Oct. 1 through Nov. 11. This is a yearly tradition to honor and recognize those who made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve our freedom.

Commissioners spoke at length on the importance of being there and supporting our country’s veterans as they transition from active duty to civilian life.

Commissioner Zach Cole-Borghi said, “We should support all veterans. It is a failure when one falls through the cracks.”

Dutt reminded everyone of the importance of saying “thank you” to our veterans.