Resource Guide: Making National Hispanic Heritage Month meaningful at work

National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15th to October 15th, is a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic Americans to our nation. This month-long celebration provides a valuable opportunity for workplaces to promote diversity, inclusion, and cultural understanding among employees. This year’s theme, specifically, has been titled “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America.” 

Let’s explore some meaningful ways to observe National Hispanic Heritage Month at work to help foster a more inclusive environment. 

Educate your team 

Start by educating your team about the significance of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Provide information about its history and the various cultures and countries it encompasses. Share stories of notable Hispanic figures who have made significant contributions in various fields, such as art, science, politics, and sports. Understanding the context and importance of this month can help create a sense of unity and purpose among your employees.  

This resource from The Smithsonian, Top 8 reasons: Why and how we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, is an easy-to-digest article that can help employees understand more about the importance of this month-long celebration.  

Celebrate cultural diversity 

Encourage employees to share their own cultural traditions and experiences. Consider hosting events where team members can showcase their heritage through food, music, dance, and art. These celebrations can provide a platform for employees to learn from one another and appreciate the richness of Hispanic and Latinx cultures.  

This KQED series from PBS, If Cities Could Dance, has featured many communities across the nation telling their stories through dance and could serve as a fun and engaging way of bringing employees together to learn.  

Amplify Hispanic Voices 

Give Hispanic employees a platform to share their stories and experiences. Host panel discussions, speaker series, or workshops where they can discuss their career journeys, challenges, and successes. This not only fosters a sense of belonging but also promotes diversity in leadership roles. 

In this five minute video from NBC Universal, Young Latinos talk about how their American experience has defined their identity at a time when Latinos are part of one of the largest and fastest-growing youth populations in the country and can offer a low-pressure viewing opportunity while still exemplifying the power of storytelling.  

Observing National Hispanic Heritage Month at work is more than just a cultural celebration; it’s an opportunity to foster inclusivity, promote diversity, and strengthen your organization’s commitment to equality. By educating your team, celebrating cultural diversity, and amplifying Hispanic voices, you can create a workplace where every employee feels valued and respected. Use this month as a catalyst for lasting change and a more inclusive future for your organization.