Hispanic Heritage Month offers an opportunity to promote cultural understanding.
Observed annually from September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to reflect on the indelible impact the Hispanic and Latino community has made on American society. It’s unusual mid-month start, and end dates encompass the Independence Days of many Latino countries including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile, Belize, and Spain. You may wonder how your organization can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in meaningful and impactful ways. Read on to learn more about this important observance and five ways to commemorate it in your workplace.
Why is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at work important?
Enacted into United States federal law on August 17, 1988, Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) is a time to honor the influence and contributions of Hispanic- and Latino-identifying people across the United States. It provides insight into their unique culture and traditions, which helps break down barriers, overcome stereotypes, and develop a broader understanding of the cultural history. Consider these facts:
- People of Hispanic descent make up 18% of the U.S. population.
- According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Hispanic workers in the labor force grew from 10.7 million in 1990 to 29 million in 2020 and is expected to reach 35.9 million in 2030.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month can help companies demonstrate their appreciation of the diversity of their workforce, customers, and the communities they serve.
Five Meaningful Ways to Commemorate HHM in the Workplace
- Showcase local businesses.
You may be surprised to learn that one in four new businesses in the U.S. is Hispanic-owned, with almost five million Hispanic-owned companies contributing more than $800 billion to the American economy every year. Consider partnering with Hispanic and Latino companies in your community and promoting their goods and services to your employees. For instance, you might organize a vendor fair featuring culturally inspired food, products, activities, giveaways, and more.
- Make it festive.
Encourage everyone at your company to celebrate HHM! Chances are that your efforts to infuse fun into the workplace will be welcome. Food is a universal source of unity and can attract the attention of employees from all backgrounds. Consider hosting a culturally inspired cooking class or potluck. You could share recipes and expose your team to a variety of authentic cuisines. The impact of Hispanic and Latino music is also undeniable. Are there musicians in your community or workforce who might enjoy contributing to your celebration? You could also feature a Latino-inspired musical playlist.
- Arrange a presentation.
Contacting your local Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is an excellent starting point, as they can connect you with influential figures within the community. Consider organizing a panel discussion featuring local Hispanic business leaders, educators, or cultural experts who can share their experiences and insights. This not only provides an opportunity for employees to learn about their diverse backgrounds and successes but also fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural and economic impact of the Hispanic community.
- Support Hispanic arts and culture.
Enhance your observance of Hispanic Heritage Month by hosting an art exhibit featuring works by local Hispanic artists, or organizing live dance, musical, or theatrical performances that highlight cultural traditions. Partner with local cultural institutions or artists to provide enriching experiences for your employees while celebrating the rich heritage of Hispanic culture.
- Give your time.
Volunteering with local nonprofits and charities is an excellent way to help the community, bond with your team members, and inspire engagement and motivation in the workplace!
Lending your support as an organization allows you to bring many helping hands to a worthwhile project, while also forming corporate partnerships and lasting relationships that can support internship and recruiting programs. Your local Hispanic Chamber of Commerce can help you find reputable organizations in need of volunteers, as well as suggest meaningful projects that align with your company’s values and goals.
As you plan your Hispanic Heritage Month observances, take time to research and represent the rich cultural influences of Hispanic and Latino communities. When executed strategically, your celebration can be a fun, positive, and informative experience for all.
Ready to foster a more inclusive work environment that celebrates and engages everyone? The HR Team is here to help. Please contact us to learn more.
About The HR Team: Founded in 1996, The HR Team is a Maryland-based human resources outsourcing firm committed to developing strategic, customized solutions that respond to the unique needs and cultures of organizations of all types and sizes. Available as a one-source alternative to an in-house HR department or on an à la carte project basis, the company’s flexible service models address the full spectrum of HR needs that many organizations struggle to address. The HR Team helps clients achieve their highest level of success by providing value-driven human resources services that leave them time to focus on what they do best: directing business growth and profitability. Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, the firm serves all of Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia. To learn more about The HR Team, call 410.381.9700 or visit https://www.thehrteam.com/.
