SB 40-HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH  3:34:09 PM CHAIR KAWASAKI announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 40 "An Act establishing the period between September 15 and October 15 of each year as Hispanic Heritage Month." 3:34:33 PM SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON speaking as sponsor, introduced SB 40 in Spanish and continued with the rest of the introduction as follows: [Original punctuation provided.] SB 40 seeks to formally establish the period between September 15 and October 15 of each year as Hispanic Heritage Month in Alaska. This recognition aligns with the federal observance of Hispanic Heritage Month, a time dedicated to honoring and celebrating the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic Americans. Hispanic and Latino communities have played an essential role in shaping our state and our nation. Their contributions span across industriesbusiness, education, public service, science, and the arts enriching our communities and strengthening our economy. By designating this month in state law, we affirm the importance of recognizing and celebrating these contributions in a meaningful and consistent way. SB 40 does not impose any mandates but encourages schools, community groups, and public and private organizations to engage in educational and cultural activities that highlight the achievements and history of Hispanic Americans. By passing this bill, we send a clear message that Alaska values diversity, inclusivity, and the recognition of the many communities that contribute to our shared success. I respectfully ask for your support in advancing SB 40. 3:36:31 PM DEIRDRE GOINS, Staff, Senator Gray-Jackson, Alaska State Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, provided the sectional analysis for SB 43. [Original punctuation provided.] SB 40: Hispanic Heritage Month   Sectional Analysis Version N    Section 1- Adds a new section to AS 44.12.  Section 44.12.183. Hispanic Heritage Month  This new section establishes the period between September 15 and October 15 of each year as Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month may be observed by schools, community groups, and other public and private agencies and individuals with appropriate activities to honor and recognize the contributions that Hispanic Americans have made in the history and culture of Alaska and the United States. 3:37:32 PM CHAIR KAWASAKI announced invited testimony on SB 40. 3:38:03 PM DORA WILSON, Member, Anchorage School Board, Anchorage, Alaska, testified by invitation on SB 40 as follows: [Original punctuation provided.] I have lived, worked and raised my three beautiful children in Alaska. I have been a therapeutic foster parent for the past 21 years, where my husband and I have had over 50 youth come through our home in that time. I am a Community Outreach Manager. I have served in many volunteer roles as well as on multiple non- profit boards. I am also an elected member of the Anchorage School Board. I am taking the time to share a few of my accomplishments because my married name is Wilson, but my maiden name is Garcia. To my knowledge, I am the first Latina Americana that has been elected to the Anchorage School Board. 3:38:55 PM MS. WILSON continued: I am only one of the many Hispanics in Alaska that are working every day to advocate for our community and inspire future generations. The Hispanic community in Alaksa is very diverse, with roots in countries like Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Colombia, Dominican Republic & Puerto Rico. Hispanics make up 7.7 percent of Alaska's population. The Anchorage School District is one of the most diverse school districts in the nation. Of the over 100 languages spoken by students and families, Spanish ranks in the top 5 languages spoken. Establishing Hispanic Heritage Month in state law encourages schools, community groups and public institutions to educate students and the public about the achievements and traditions of Hispanic Americans. Hispanic Americans have contributed significantly to Alaska's workforce, particularly in industries such as healthcare, education, construction, fishing and small business development. Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month highlights the importance of these contributions and encourages greater participation in civic and economic life. 3:40:51 PM CHAIR KAWASAKI opened public testimony on SB 40. 3:41:09 PM JOAN RYAN ESTAY, Vice President, Enlaces Alaska, Anchorage, Alaska, testified in support of SB 40. She read her testimony as follows: [Original punctuation provided.] Hispanic Heritage Month is a vital celebration not just for Latinos, but for all Alaskans, as it offers a unique opportunity to showcase the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Latino community to the state's vibrant identity. In Alaska, Latino businesses are playing an essential role in shaping the local economy and adding to the cultural mosaic of the state. 3:42:00 PM MS. ESTAY continued: Latino-owned businesses are growing throughout Alaska, bringing with them a wealth of tradition, flavors, and expertise. From restaurants offering authentic Mexican, Central and South American dishes, to creative enterprises in fashion, art, and music, Latino businesses are helping to diversify the economy and enrich the local culture. These businesses not only provide goods and services, but they also become cultural hubs where people can experience the heart of Latino traditions and customs. Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month in Alaska goes beyond acknowledging Latino cultureit helps everyone appreciate the depth of Latino contributions to society. It's a chance to open doors to new experiences, whether through tasting Latin-inspired dishes, learning about the history and traditions behind them, or simply engaging with a diverse community. For Latinos, this month serves as a time to share our vibrant customs, history, and flavors with the broader Alaskan population. It's a way to create connection, understanding, and appreciation across different communities. Everyone can embrace this opportunity to learn about cultural practices, whether it's through attending events, trying a new dish, or experiencing Latin dance and music. Moreover, Hispanic Heritage Month highlights the importance of inclusivity, showing that Alaska's rich cultural fabric is strengthened by every community Latinos included. It's about ensuring that everyone's voice is heard and everyone's contributions are valued, creating a more cohesive and welcoming state. Latino businesses help to create jobs, support local economies, and foster a sense of community. Whether it's a family-run restaurant, a community organization, or a small retail store, these businesses are integral to the social and economic life of Alaska. They offer opportunities for cross- cultural exchange, where Alaskans of all backgrounds can engage with one another and learn from diverse perspectives. 3:44:28 PM MS. ESTAY continued: To conclude    Hispanic Heritage Month in Alaska is about much more than honoring the Latino community. It's about recognizing how Latino culture enhances the vibrancy and uniqueness of the state. From its flavors to its artistic contributions, Latino businesses are enriching the Alaskan experience for all. By embracing this celebration, we can foster understanding, build stronger communities, and ensure that Alaska remains a place where every culture has the space to shine. 3:45:12 PM FELIX RIVERA, representing self, Anchorage, Alaska, testified in support of SB 40. He stated that the Hispanic and Latino Alaskans make up 7.5 percent of Alaska's population, though undercounts suggest the true number of Hispanic and Latino Alaskans is 10 percent, with most residing in Anchorage. He said the community of Latinos has a rich history and culture that deserves recognition through SB 40. He announced the Anchorage Museum is currently hosting an exhibit celebrating Latino and Hispanic Alaskans contributions to the state's political, economic, and social fabric. He stated that SB 40 aims to honor these contributions at the state level, like how the Anchorage Assembly has passed resolutions recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month for many years. He stated that passing SB 40 would strengthen the community's connection to the state. 3:47:27 PM CHAIR KAWASAKI closed public and invited testimony on SB 40. 3:47:48 PM CHAIR KAWASAKI held SB 40 in committee.