What is Hispanic Heritage Month and why do we celebrate it?
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan enacted a public law declaring a 30-day Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 every year. Hispanic Heritage Month is dedicated to celebrating the millions of Hispanic Americans and their rich cultural heritage.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are more than 62 million people in the United States identify as Hispanic, making up 18.7 percent of the country’s population as of 2020.
With such a large Hispanic population within the U.S., it is important to recognize the diverse histories and cultures, acknowledging the achievements and contributions of Hispanic people to the country’s national story. In fact, the contributions of Hispanic people in the United States reaches back to the American Revolution.
“A theme highlighted during Hispanic Heritage Month is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” What an appropriate subject to spotlight as we look back at Greenbrier’s history and note the significant contributions our Hispanic employees have made to creating today’s Greenbrier. From Board Members to Executive Officers to the majority of Greenbrier’s worldwide workforce, Hispanic individuals are a significant force behind the success of our company.”
—Greg Bretzing
SVP Administration, Corporate Security and Risk and ERG Executive Sponsor
How does Greenbrier support Hispanic Heritage Month and its Hispanic workforce?
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month and Greenbrier’s Hispanic workforce, Greenbrier is celebrating its Hispanic Employee Resource Group (ERG). The Hispanic ERG was formed in February 2023 to create a space for employees to discuss cultural diversity, education, and the professional development of their members.
Through the Hispanic ERG, we aim to reinforce a supportive environment for Greenbrier’s Hispanic employees and friends, celebrating the diversity of our workforce and highlighting the uniqueness and vibrancy of our cultural backgrounds.
Meet the Hispanic ERG Leadership Team
- Kyla Boswell, ERG Co-Lead
- Thomas Hannon, ERG Co-Lead
- Ibissa Azcona, Communications Chair
- Armando Castaneda, Events Chair
- Jesus Salazar, Recruitment Chair
Greenbrier is committed to creating spaces for employees to connect and celebrate the diversity of our workforce through ERGs. This month is an opportunity to embrace the richness of Hispanic heritage and celebrate the ongoing contributions of these communities to our society. Whether through art, education or advocacy, every individual has a role in recognizing and uplifting the diverse narratives that form the foundation of our shared experience.
What does it mean to be an ally? How can you support the Hispanic community?
Educate Yourself
- Learn about the history, traditions and contributions of Hispanic cultures. Understand that these cultures are incredibly diverse, encompassing people from many countries and regions.
Build Relationships
- Make an effort to build meaningful relationships with Hispanic individuals and communities. Engage in open, respectful dialogues to learn from each other.
Be Open to Feedback
- Understand that you may make mistakes or have misunderstandings along the way. Be open to feedback and willing to learn from your experiences.
Being an ally is an ongoing process that requires a commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement. Building genuine connections and respecting the Hispanic culture and its members are key to being a supportive ally.
Greenbrier is proud of its diverse workforce and those of the Hispanic community who contribute to the organization’s success and its culture. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month reinforces Greenbrier’s IDEAL Commitment, encouraging relationship building, making connections, learning from one another and creating allyship among team members.
