History:
Many are aware of the month, but few know of its origin. The celebration dates back to the 1960s when the administration at the time celebrated Hispanic Heritage Week. The week went on to become a monthlong celebration in the late 1980s as a way to appreciate and recognize the contributions Hispanic-Americans have made to our society. It is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for several Latin American countries. Other countries were subsequently added to the list since they celebrated independence days throughout the month, thus the celebratory week becoming a month-long event.
Hispanic Heritage Month 2021 at Gilbane
To honor Hispanic Heritage Month at Gilbane the HOL@ Employee Resource Group (ERG) has taken the lead in organizing engaging activities that highlight Hispanic traditions and celebrate our most valued asset, our people. Throughout the month, people spotlights are being featured on Gilbane’s intranet for everyone to learn more about their fellow colleagues. Our team members are sharing details and information on family heritage, traditions, and fun facts – below are two example spotlight stories.
Team members from across the organization are also participating in our Instagram Takeover – Hispanic Heritage Month Series. Throughout the month, we are giving everyone a glimpse into our people’s day-to-day work environments and natural elements. Through a series of short videos and photos, team members are showcasing a day in both their personal and professional lives. The stories shared have included clips of our employees getting ready for the day by either taking a jog or enjoying some warm ‘cafecito’ (espresso). Others are sharing their favorite food spots, like a Dominican bakery in New York City called ‘El Panadero’. We were even taken to the top of the Crown Building in New York as our superintendent, Jonathan Reyes, shares some background on the future of the building.
Additionally, the HOL@ ERG will be hosting a trivia night in early October designed to share and educate participants on the history and contributions of Hispanic-Americans. Lastly, back by popular demand, HOL@ is collecting recipes to compile a cookbook that includes distinct cuisines from Central America, South America, Mexico, the Caribbean Island, and Spain that our employees enjoy. The second annual cookbook will be shared with the entire employee population to wrap up Hispanic Heritage month. After all, food brings us all together!
The Future:
At Gilbane, we are committed to driving change and advancing social impact that connects with the Hispanic community in more meaningful ways. We are inspired by the Hispanic community’s pride of heritage, entrepreneurial spirt, and commitment to progress. For this reason, Gilbane is excited to participate once again in the 2021 SHPE National Convention in Orlando, FL next month. SHPE, which stands for Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, empowers the Hispanic community to realize its fullest potential and impact to the world through STEM awareness, access, support, and development.
From November 10-13, 2021, Gilbane will be attending the National Convention as a sponsor conducting on-site interviews. The convention brings together top talent from around the country gathering over 7000 students and professionals from a wide variety of STEM fields. Last year, we engaged with over 120 students and extended offers to 12 very strong candidates. We are excited to meet the next generation of builders and see what this year has in store.
