by Ileana Martinez | Sep 13, 2024 | News & Updates
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 2024, we salute the rich legacy and countless contributions that Latinos have made to our nation鈥檚 workforce, economy, and cultural vibrancy. This annual celebration, which runs from September 15 to October 15, honors the diverse histories, cultures, and achievements of Hispanic Americans whose influence spans every sector of American life.
鈥淗ispanic Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge Latinos鈥 remarkable impact in shaping our nation. From the workforce to the arts, education to business, our community continues to enrich America鈥檚 tapestry with our hard work, creativity, and resilience,鈥 said Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO of 精東影業.
Latinos play a significant role daily in many industries, from construction and agriculture to healthcare and education. The 精東影業 Network of Affiliates is honored to help shape Latino entrepreneurs, innovators, and cultural leaders who are leaving indelible marks on this country. Our stories are those of determination, perseverance, and success, and they illustrate how diversity strengthens and enriches our nation.
The growth and influence of the Hispanic community have been reflected not only in numbers but also in the profound impact Latinos have made across multiple sectors. Latino artists continue to shine in the world of culture and art, with recent exhibitions and performances drawing attention to the vibrant stories that shape our experiences. From Hollywood to the music charts, Latino voices lead movements and shape narratives that resonate across generations. In education, Latinos advance as leaders and scholars, breaking barriers and lifting future generations to pursue their dreams.
Business, too, is thriving with Latino entrepreneurs, whose start-ups and enterprises contribute immensely to the nation鈥檚 economic vitality. The successes of Latino-owned businesses demonstrate the hard work and innovative spirit that fuel growth and opportunity across the U.S.
Hispanic Heritage Month originated in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to the month-long observance we celebrate today. This period was chosen because it coincides with the independence anniversaries of many Latin American countries. Over the years, it has grown into an annual national celebration of Latinos鈥 enduring contributions to the United States.
鈥淎merica is made stronger by the diversity of its people, and Hispanic Heritage Month is a beautiful reminder of how our differences, when embraced, make this country a more vibrant and resilient place,鈥 Salazar added. 鈥淭his month is an opportunity to honor the shared values of hard work, community, and family at the heart of the Hispanic experience.鈥
As we mark this occasion, we invite every American to participate in the celebrations. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of beauty, joy, and excitement鈥攁 time to reflect on the shared values that unite us all as a nation. 精東影業 encourages everyone to embrace the spirit of this month and celebrate the richness of our cultures, knowing that in America, everyone鈥檚 voice and contributions genuinely matter.
by Ileana Martinez | Aug 29, 2024 | News & Updates
As we celebrate Labor Day 2024, 精東影業 honors America鈥檚 workforce for its hard work, dedication, and resilience. This year鈥檚 national theme, 鈥淪trength in Unity: The Workforce That Built America,鈥 reminds us of the incredible contributions of workers nationwide who have shaped our nation into a global leader. Today, we recognize the essential role that workers from diverse backgrounds and women play in driving the economic engine of the United States and look forward to the continued impact of this dynamic community.
鈥溇珫|影業 and the 精東影業 Network of Affiliates proudly join our nation in acknowledging our country鈥檚 dedicated men and women whose labor is making America stronger and more dynamic than ever,鈥 says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淲e are a resilient workforce together and globally competitive because of our training and skills in every industry and technology. Continuing to invest in our workforce is to invest in the strength of the United States.鈥
This year鈥檚 theme underscores a vital truth: America鈥檚 strength comes from its diversity. Generation after generation, immigrants worldwide, past and present, have come to these shores to pursue the American Dream, bringing skills, determination, and a commitment to building a better future. Today, all communities are integral to this incredible story, contributing to every aspect of American life and industry. As we celebrate Labor Day, we also celebrate the unique spirit of inclusion, innovation, and hard work that defines us as a nation.
The country鈥檚 multicultural workforce has been a cornerstone of America鈥檚 economic success, representing a significant and growing segment of our nation鈥檚 labor force. Latinos, Blacks, and Asians represent an ever-growing segment of the U.S. labor market, projected to exceed 50% by 2060. This growth is a testament to their communities鈥 work ethic, adaptability, and commitment to excellence across all industries鈥攆rom healthcare and education to technology and construction.
Moreover, all workers are needed to sustain and expand the U.S. economy. They are the backbone of many critical sectors and drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth鈥攖hat trend will increase significantly in the coming decades. As the demand for skilled workers continues to rise, especially in high-growth fields like technology, healthcare, and green energy, a well-prepared, trained, and experienced workforce has never been more critical.
The future of America鈥檚 prosperity depends on its ability to harness the talents and skills of all its workers. A prepared workforce is necessary and a strategic advantage in the global economy. As we face a forecasted need for millions of new workers in the next few decades, ensuring that we have a workforce that is educated, trained, and ready to meet the demands of tomorrow is crucial. This is why investing in workforce development is investing in America鈥檚 future.
鈥淟abor Day gives our country a chance to pause and thank the hard work of generations of Americans for their sweat and sacrifice that has made ours the greatest economy in the world. May we be mindful of the blessing that our strength comes from our daily unity at our places of work, where we find common purpose in our service to others. Congratulations to the hard-working people of the United States and Puerto Rico, and Happy Labor Day.鈥
by Ileana Martinez | Jul 2, 2024 | News & Updates
At 精東影業, July 4th holds profound patriotic importance, as it is for all Americans, marking the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Although it only became a federal holiday in 1941, its celebration dates back to the late 18th century. The holiday is known for its vibrant displays of the American flag and fireworks as we honor our founders鈥 sacrifices for freedom.
鈥淎t 精東影業, we strive to instill in each of the more than one million stakeholders we serve every year that the greatest freedom is the privilege and opportunity to decide for themselves how they will fulfill their purpose in their lives and within society,鈥 says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淥ur role is to inspire independence, explore their talents and skills, and help shape those into a new career, profession, trade, or business. The 精東影業 Network of Affiliates encourages its staff to celebrate the core values each of them brings to the team. Together, they can achieve greater success. In the same way, July 4th reminds us we are greater together,鈥 he adds.
Another significant aspect of July 4th is the reminder that individual Americans can improve the workplace. Each person is instrumental in shaping the prosperous country we know today. We champion the standard workday, weekends off, paid vacations, and numerous other labor privileges each of us enjoy.
鈥淭his workplace landscape is bearing fruit at a record level,鈥 says Salazar. 鈥淎ccording to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau for Labor Statistics, three of every four women in America are working and earning money for themselves and their families. Meanwhile, the rate of men working is better than before the pandemic, or 86.4%,鈥 he adds.
This trend reflects our country鈥檚 resilience and the American spirit of adapting and overcoming challenges, which is as strong as ever. As we celebrate this long weekend, let us recognize our achievements and the blessings they bring to our country. Yet, let us strive for even more workplace equity and equality.
鈥淚 would encourage everyone this July 4th to go out and enjoy their time with family and friends, mindful of how fortunate we are to work, live, and play in the USA,鈥 says Salazar. 鈥淢ay this holiday be a time to reach out to neighbors we may not know or make new friends in the spirit of a birthday where each of us plays an important role. 精東影業 will continue to promote that spirit year-round so that every day is a new opportunity to be proud of being an American,鈥 he adds.
Happy Independence Day from 精東影業 and the 精東影業 Network of Affiliates!
by Ileana Martinez | Jun 14, 2024 | News & Updates
精東影業 joins the nation in commemorating Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in our history that marked a new beginning for countless individuals. On this date in 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the freedom of more than a quarter-million enslaved people. This proclamation came two and a half years after the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous day was celebrated with jubilant expressions of culture, faith, and community 鈥 the very essence of the Juneteenth observances we witness today.
鈥淥n Juneteenth, 精東影業 and the 精東影業 Network of Affiliates proudly celebrate the diversity of our nation鈥檚 workforce,鈥 says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淎lso, we acknowledge the individual skills, talents, experiences, and perspectives that we share when we can come together in whatever industry we choose. Yet, we can continue to have our identity and uniqueness as individuals. Yes, America may be a melting pot in many ways because unity of purpose strengthens us. However, having our personal daily preferences in food, music, clothing, and so many other aspects of our lives is also a freedom we enjoy in this country,鈥 he adds.
As Juneteenth festivities expanded beyond Texas, they symbolized resilience and cultural pride and reminded of the ongoing pursuit of racial justice and equality. The designation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021 was a significant acknowledgment of our nation鈥檚 journey and the work that remains.
Despite progress, disparities persist in the American workforce. Research by McKinsey & Company shows that Black employees face systemic challenges, including higher unemployment rates and wage gaps, particularly in transportation, healthcare, retail, and service industries. These findings underscore the importance of Juneteenth鈥檚 message in the modern workplace: the call for a society where every individual can thrive in their chosen field without prejudice.
Salazar further emphasizes the broader implications of Juneteenth: 鈥淎nother important truth of Juneteenth is that we are blessed with another opportunity to reflect upon the promise of America and ask ourselves what else can I do to make sure that every person is included in the fulfillment of that dream. Our workplace every day gives us each a new chance to interact with each other respectfully and with genuine appreciation, making it a safe and welcoming space for all. May Juneteenth 2024 be another step forward toward achieving that goal.鈥
As we observe Juneteenth, let us honor the past while actively shaping a future where the workplace is a bastion of inclusivity, respect, and equal opportunity for all.
by Ileana Martinez | May 31, 2024 | News & Updates
精東影業 and the 精東影業 Network of Affiliates proudly support Pride Month, celebrated annually in June. The month is filled with colorful parades, festivals, and events that promote inclusivity and celebrate the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities.
鈥淧ride month is a vibrant and joyous recognition of the LGBTQ+ community and their significant contributions to the nation鈥檚 economic strength and our society鈥檚 fabric,鈥 says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淚t is a time to honor their resilience and to advocate for equality, acceptance, and human rights, especially in our workforce, where we can each make meaningful contributions,鈥 he adds.
One of the best ways to participate in Pride Month is to attend events and encourage conversations in a spirit of learning and appreciation for everyone. These gatherings show solidarity and are an opportunity to be immersed in a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Americans can celebrate diversity and focus on the positive ways to share in our country鈥檚 promise for all.
鈥淓ducating ourselves is another important aspect of Pride Month,鈥 says Salazar. 鈥溇珫|影業 respects the important history and ongoing struggles of the LGBTQ+ community among the more than one million people we serve yearly and in our 精東影業 family of team members. We can each foster greater understanding and empathy to help promote safer and more inclusive workplaces. This atmosphere generates more cohesive and productive teams working in harmony,鈥 adds Salazar.
Supporting LGBTQ+ organizations and advocacy are two other meaningful ways to contribute. Donations to organizations that champion equality and provide vital support can make a significant impact. Volunteering our time or skills can also uplift and empower LGBTQ+ individuals. Being an advocate means standing up for what is right in our community and beyond.
鈥淎t 精東影業 and the 精東影業 Network of Affiliates, we are dedicated to being strong supporters of ALL values of respect and affirmation of all individuals,鈥 says Salazar. 鈥淥ur programs and services across America and Puerto Rico are extended to people of all identities and within our staff at all levels. This commitment reflects the importance of embracing diversity and fostering a genuinely inclusive environment where everyone can thrive,鈥 he adds.
May we celebrate Pride Month through uplifting messages on social media, amplifying stories, and being beacons of love and respect related to rights and acceptance. Let us help make our country an example for the world as a land of inclusivity founded on the principles that every individual has the God-given right to exist and realize their full potential in safety, peace, and happiness. Happy Pride Month 2024!
by Ileana Martinez | May 24, 2024 | News & Updates
精東影業 and the 精東影業 Network of Affiliates proudly pause on this Memorial Day to remind all Americans of the profound and enduring sacrifices made by the valiant defenders of our democracy. These brave souls gave their lives to protect the freedoms we cherish in the United States of America. Today, we honor their memory, acknowledging that our liberty was secured at the highest cost鈥攅ach life lost was a courageous warrior.
鈥淔or them, their rest now is eternal, and for us, our duty is to honor their legacy by engaging in positive actions that build up our nation,鈥 says President and CEO Ignacio Salazar. 鈥淭hrough our unity in meaningful and honorable endeavors daily, we can embody the collective spirit of the America they fought and died for,鈥 he adds.
Originally known as Decoration Day, this observance began in 1868 to honor fallen Union soldiers from the Civil War. On that day, Americans placed flowers at the graves of their military loved ones who died in combat. Over time, cities across the United States began to honor their war dead annually, and in 1968, the observance was officially renamed Memorial Day. Congress declared it a federal holiday in 1971. The tradition of red poppies on Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder of the flowers that grew amidst the desolation of battlefields.
The sacrifice of all American military service members lost in combat has ensured that our nation remains a land of opportunity and freedom. 精東影業 and the 精東影業 Network of Affiliates are dedicated to helping more than one million program participants harness their talents yearly, pursue education and training, and succeed in their careers. In doing so, we honor the legacy of those who gave their lives by perpetuating the American dream they died to protect.
This Memorial Day, as we visit the sacred resting places of our fallen heroes adorned with flowers and flags, let us remember that they were someone鈥檚 child, sibling, parent, or friend. Let us elevate our spirits in reflection, recognizing that there was no greater love for our service members than their devotion to God, Country, and Family. Let this day be a testament to our gratitude and a promise that we will never forget their courage and sacrifice. So too, may our actions at work for and with others be our constant tribute.
鈥淢emorial Day鈥檚 true honor is in remembering our brave warriors. Some we know by name, as they were our loved ones and friends. For all, we offer a silent prayer of gratitude, knowing that in our daily endeavors, we carry forward what they could not. In this way, our lives are forever intertwined,鈥 says Salazar.
Let us commemorate this Memorial Day with a renewed commitment to the values our fallen heroes defended, ensuring their sacrifice continues to inspire our actions and dedication to a better America.
