WHEREAS, the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) is represented by a vast number of archaeological and historical sites, historic buildings, and landscapes that have been discovered and recorded through the CNMI; and,
WHEREAS, the preservation of the CNMI’s past for future generations is set on a foundation of public appreciation and understanding; and,
WHEREAS, protection and preservation of these sites, buildings, and landscapes provide educational, scientific, and economic benefits for CNMI citizens; and,
WHEREAS, historic preservation is an effective tool for managing growth, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride, and maintaining community character while enhancing livability; and,
WHEREAS, it is important to understand the role of history in our lives to appreciate the contributions made by individuals who preserve the heritage that shapes us as a people; and,
WHEREAS, the Historic Preservation Office, under the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, was created to educate the public about the disciplines of archaeology and historic preservation; and,
WHEREAS, in fulfilling its mandates, the Historic Preservation Office partners with other government agencies, private companies, archaeologists, historians, students, and private citizens in enhancing archaeology and historic preservation; and,
WHEREAS, “People Saving Places” is the theme for the CNMI Historic Preservation Month, whereby Commonwealth citizens shall recognize and celebrate the significance of your precious historic, archaeological, and cultural resources as a source of economic development, education, and identity.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RALPH DLG. TORRES, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and Laws of the Commonwealth, do hereby proclaim May 2022 as
HISTORIC PRESERVATION MONTH
I call upon all citizens of the Commonwealth to celebrate the role of history in our lives and the contributions of people who helped to preserve the history that shaped us as a people, and to take part in the appropriate events, ceremonies, and observances of this month.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand on this 12th day of May 2022.
/s/
RALPH DLG. TORRES
Governor
