Bill > CER26-0070

This resolution recognizes and honors Saint Óscar Arnulfo Romero, a significant religious and human rights figure from El Salvador, by officially declaring August 15, 2025, as Saint Romero Day in Washington, D.C. The resolution highlights Romero's important historical role as a powerful moral voice during El Salvador's civil conflict, where he courageously denounced violence against civilians and championed the rights of the poor and oppressed, earning him the title "Voice of the Voiceless." The document emphasizes Romero's significance to D.C.'s Latino community, particularly Salvadorans, who represent the largest Latino population in the city and many of whom found refuge in D.C. during the late 1970s through early 1990s. The resolution also notes Romero's international recognition, including his nomination for the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize, his assassination while celebrating Mass in 1980, and his subsequent beautification and canonization by the Catholic Church in 2015 and 2018. By establishing Saint Romero Day, the D.C. Council aims to commemorate his enduring legacy of justice, hope, and transformative community action, recognizing his ongoing inspiration for civic, faith-based, and youth organizations in the District of Columbia.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/CER26-0070