This resolution officially recognizes and supports the designation of the third week of September as "Latino Conservation Week" to celebrate the Latino community's vital role in outdoor recreation and natural resource protection.
Nanette Barragán
Representative
CA-44
This resolution officially recognizes the vital role of the Latino community in outdoor recreation and natural resource protection across the United States. It expresses support for designating the third week of September as "Latino Conservation Week" to celebrate their ongoing commitment to conservation. The bill highlights the importance of ensuring equitable access to nature for all communities.
Congress Recognizes Latino Conservation Week, Highlighting Community’s Role in Protecting Public Lands
This resolution is all about officially recognizing the third week of September as "Latino Conservation Week." Think of it as Congress giving a formal nod to the huge role the Latino community plays—and has always played—in environmental stewardship, outdoor recreation, and protecting our national resources.
Why the Formal Nod Matters
This isn't a bill that changes a law or allocates money; it's a resolution that expresses support and recognition. But that recognition carries weight. It affirms that the Latino community is deeply committed to conservation, often leading the charge for clean air and water. The resolution specifically highlights that 78 percent of Latinos report personally dealing with environmental issues affecting their health or jobs. This acknowledgment validates the disproportionate impact environmental challenges have on this community while celebrating their leadership in finding solutions.
The Real-World Impact: Getting Outside and Getting Involved
The core purpose of Latino Conservation Week, as supported by this resolution, is to encourage engagement. During this week, organizations like the Hispanic Access Foundation coordinate hundreds of events—from hiking and camping in National Parks to local park cleanups, community garden plantings, and educational talks. For everyday people, this means more organized, accessible opportunities to get outside and connect with nature, whether you're a young professional looking for a hiking group or a parent seeking a safe, local park event for your kids. By celebrating this week, the resolution aims to ensure that public lands and outdoor spaces are welcoming and accessible to everyone, which is crucial given that the Latino population is a fast-growing demographic in the outdoor economy.
Strengthening Our Natural Resources Through Inclusion
The resolution makes a clear point: including Latino youth, families, and leaders in conservation efforts actually strengthens our ability to manage public lands and tackle climate change. When a community that makes up 19% of the U.S. population is fully engaged, the solutions are better. For those working in environmental policy or public land management, this resolution serves as a clear statement that inclusion isn't just a nice idea—it's essential for effective conservation. It supports the idea that conservation efforts must respect diverse languages, histories, and cultural connections to the land, ensuring that our national parks and forests reflect and serve the entire country.