Our network of employee and business resource groups helps to foster our Cultural Belief of Inclusion & Belonging, creating an environment where people feel respected and valued as their authentic selves. Meet some of the members of our Nuestra Gente employee resource group.
Amparo
One of my favorite traditions is Dia de los Muertos. In recent years, this holiday has become a lot more known and popularized in the US, which is extremely gratifying to see.
Amparo, senior human resources generalist
What is the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and what does it mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage Month is important to me in many ways. Not only because it is a way to celebrate my heritage, even though I do that all the time and not just during this month, but it is also an opportunity to share with and educate others on my heritage and culture. I think this is not only extremely important but also very valuable.
What favorite traditions do you have from your culture? Do you honor those traditions during Hispanic Heritage Month?
One of my most favorite traditions I enjoy seeing and participating in is Dia de los Muertos. In recent years, this holiday has become a lot more known and popularized in the US, which is extremely gratifying to see. It is a beautiful and nostalgic tradition that brings families together to celebrate those who are no longer with us physically but remain with us spiritually. I enjoy this time of year very much, especially in Mexico. I encourage anyone to travel to Mexico or another Latin American country, during this time to experience this holiday. It is beautiful!
What’s the best advice you would give your younger self?
The best advice I would give my younger self would be to not follow other people’s timelines. There isn’t a golden standard for when things need to happen. We all have different timelines and that is completely OK. Also, I would tell my younger self to listen to older people, as they have lived many more experiences and if one tells you to invest in your 401k early on, you better listen!
Cesar
The celebration of Hispanic Heritage month is a moment to spotlight the countless contributions that Hispanic Americans have made to shape our country. On a personal level, its an opportunity to highlight my culture and its unique characteristics that influence our daily lives.
Cesar, senior financial analyst
What is the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and what does it mean to you?
The celebration of Hispanic Heritage month is a moment to spotlight the countless contributions that Hispanic Americans have made to shape our country. On a personal level, its an opportunity to highlight my culture and its unique characteristics that influence our daily lives.
What favorite traditions do you have from your culture? Do you honor those traditions during Hispanic Heritage Month?
Some of my favorite cultural traditions are heavily influenced by Catholicism. The observance of the different saints and their achievements is an opportunity to gather people and strengthen the bonds of the community through celebration. These festivities are held year-round and not confined to just Hispanic Heritage Month.
What motivated you to join the Nuestra Gente employee resource group?
I wanted to garner meaningful relationships and gain a sense of community within the organization. At the same time, I wanted to be a potential beacon to influence and guide others from our cultural background.
What about Hormel Foods makes you feel welcome, accepted, and supported?
Hormel Foods encourages an open-door policy where your input is sought after. This openness makes you feel appreciated about your contributions to the success of the company.
Elia
Hispanic Heritage Month is not only staying connected to my roots, but learning more about other Latin countries and cultures.
Elia, talent development and DEI assistant
What is the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and what does it mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage Month is not only staying connected to my roots, but learning more about other Latin countries and cultures.
What about Hormel Foods makes you feel welcome, accepted and supported?
The people have been welcoming since the first day I walked in the front doors. I can be myself, and my team is very supportive.
What’s the best advice you would give your younger self?
Believe you can do anything that you put your mind to.