Over the next four weeks, Americans will be celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month at home and at work.
The US celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month (between September 15 to October 15) to recognise the achievements of Hispanic American champions who have inspired others to achieve success. The month-long event celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson; and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. It was enacted into law on 17 August 1988.
INCLUSIVITY FOR A STRONGER NATION
The theme for 2022 is Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation. According to the Hispanic Heritage Month website, this theme “encourages us to ensure that all voices are represented and welcomed to help build stronger communities and a stronger nation.”
Ily Soares, Supervisory Accountant at Farm Credit Administration (FCA) submitted the winning theme. “Hispanics in the United States are a diverse group who bring a rich combination of language, culture, educational backgrounds, and experience to the great American experiment. This diverse background brings with it a wealth of ideas and perspectives,” shared Soares.
“One uniting factor within our Hispanic community is our desire to be included and represented in all aspects of American society. As has been proven, when different voices are sitting at the metaphorical table and included in key decisions, the entire community benefits from greater solutions that address concerns from all people. Whether it be education, government, business, or the environment, ensuring that all voices are represented provide results in better and more thoughtful decisions. These improved decisions support the greater good and minimise any negative impacts to marginalised communities and people of colour. We call on citizens of this nation from all walks of life to look around and welcome new voices to the table. This will help us build stronger communities and in turn, a stronger nation.”
GROWING HISPANIC POPULATION
The month long event is important for employers as Hispanics and Latinos now make up an increasing portion of the overall US population. The 2020 US Census showed that Hispanics and Latinos make up a fast-growing, multiracial group. In 2020, 62.1 million people identified as Hispanic or Latino; that’s 18% of the US population. That number had grown 23% since 2010; compared to just 4.3% of the US population not of Hispanic or Latino origin.
Additionally, between 2010 and 2020, just over half of the total US population growth (51.1%), was due to growth among Hispanics or Latinos, according to the US Census Bureau. In short, the growing Hispanic population is just another reason why Hispanic Heritage Month is important, and why communities and workplaces should celebrate it.
There are many great ways to celebrate Latinx Heritage Month. For example, you can:
- Shop at Latinx-owned businesses.
- Read books by Latinx authors.
- Watch documentaries or films with Latinx stories, produced by and featuring Latinx actors.
- Visit museums to learn more about Latinx history or Latinx artists.
HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH TOOLKIT
In fact, Hispanic Heritage Month “is a great opportunity for businesses to connect meaningfully with US Hispanics,” shared Claudia Romo Edelman; Founder of Hispanic Star and We are All Human. “Your Hispanic employees will appreciate your support. And your consumers will strengthen their emotional brand with your company and brands.”
To help organisations celebrate the month, Edelman launched The Hispanic Heritage Month Toolkit. “It’s a complete package of everything you need to start promoting the Hispanic community with your company, peers, family and friends,” she added. Click here to access the toolkit.
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