The Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber and the El Cinco de Mayo Scholarship Committee recently honored El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal with the Outstanding Community Leadership Award for his demonstrated leadership in the Colorado Springs community. Sheriff Roybal, a native of Colorado Springs, is the first Sheriff of Hispanic heritage in El Paso County.

“I am grateful and honored to be this year’s recipient and for the opportunity to serve this community,” said Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “My parents taught me the value of hard work and dedication, principles derived from our Hispanic heritage. The Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber and the El Cinco de Mayo Scholarship Committee are an excellent resource for Latinos in the Pikes Peak region, particularly young adults looking to further their education or careers.  Being recognized by these upstanding organizations furthers my commitment as Sheriff to keep citizens safe and prosperous and hold those who break our laws accountable.”

In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson authorized the observation of Hispanic Heritage Week, which was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover 30 days starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

Sheriff Roybal and El Paso County Sheriff’s Office members participate in events hosted by The Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber and the El Cinco de Mayo Scholarship Committee. In 2023, shortly after taking the Oath of Office, Sheriff Roybal was the guest speaker for the Hispanic Chamber Luncheon in Colorado Springs.