Hello readers – we’re midway through Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the many historic and ongoing contributions of Latinx and Hispanic Americans across the United States.
Each year from September 15 to October 15, we recognize and celebrate the heritage and contributions of Latinx and Hispanic Americans, individuals with ancestry from Latin America and the Caribbean as well as those who speak the Spanish language, respectively.
The community’s cultures have had an indelible impact on the Americas, serving as a cornerstone in the foundation of the United States we know today. Hispanic people have immigrated to the United States from around the world – hugely influencing all facets of American society and culture.
And yet, American society has not always done enough to create supportive environments and pathways to success for Latinx and Hispanic communities. Unfortunately, a lack of services and proper support often results in historically excluded communities suffering from sexual harassment, misconduct, and abuse in both professional and personal environments.
Many Hispanics in the U.S. speak English as a second language, which makes access to bilingual support services critical. Many also work in service industries – such as restaurants and hotels – that can leave them vulnerable to abuse from customers and employers. In fact, about 77% of Latinas have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace.
The pandemic has exacerbated these challenges. Due to the high number of Latinx and Hispanic workers in industries that have been hit hardest by the pandemic such as food, agriculture, and hospitality, many have faced losses in employment, leaving them more vulnerable than ever to sexual harassment, misconduct, and abuse.
This month, RALIANCE’s blogs will focus on the incredible contributions of the Latinx Hispanic communities in the United States – as well as how we can provide them with the protection and support they deserve to live their fullest lives in more equitable spaces.
RALIANCE provides consulting, assessment, and employee development services to help build more equitable workplace cultures and create environments free from sexual harassment, misconduct and abuse. We stand ready to support your organization’s goals – contact us today at info@raliance.org to get started.