As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15), it’s a timely chance for PR agencies and teams to reevaluate their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). We live in Los Angeles, home to more than 49% of U.S. Latinos. Take this time to look at your own PR teams. Do they reflect this fact?
If not, consider these 10 points for year-round inclusion, not just during one month.
1. Inclusive Leadership: Seek Latino voices in leadership and empower them to influence decisions.
2. Recruitment and Retention: Eliminate bias from hiring and tailor retention strategies to underrepresented employees’ needs.
3. Cultural Competency: Encourage cultural understanding among employees.
4. Mentorship/Sponsorship: Pair emerging Latino talent with senior leaders.
6. Pay Equity and Promotion: Regularly assess and rectify disparities.
7. Company Values: Integrate DEI into core values.
8. Measure and Communicate Progress: Share progress transparently.
9. External Collaboration: Partner with external organizations for insights.
10. Long-Term Commitment: Make DEI an ongoing part of your strategy.
Let’s use Hispanic Heritage Month as a catalyst for lasting, year-round change in our workplaces, celebrating Latino excellence and fostering inclusivity.
Stephen Chavez
PRSA-LA President
stephen@chavezpr.com
