Each year—from September 15 to October 15—throughout the United States, National Hispanic Heritage Month is commemorated. During four weeks of recognition, we celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens who have immigrated or have ancestry from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Hispanic Heritage Month History:
- In 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson began this celebration with Hispanic Heritage Week.
- 20 years later, President Ronald Reagan expanded it into a month-long observation.
- Why a month-long celebration that doesn’t simply start from the beginning to end of one month?
- The dates chosen are significant.
- September 15 is the anniversary of independence for El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica and Nicaragua.
- Mexico and Chile’s independence days are celebrated, respectively, on September 16 and 18.
To honor this extraordinary month, System Soft Technologies will highlight some of our employees who are of Hispanic and Latino descent.
Meet James Ramirez
In today’s post, we put the spotlight on James Ramirez, a Recruiting Manager-Southwest Region. He’s been part of the talent acquisitions team at System Soft for the past six months.
James graciously answered five questions about his career, life and heritage. So, here’s more about James in his words.
What does National Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
For me, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates all the important contributions that Latinos have made to our great country. It also brings a sense of pride to see how our traditions are being recognized and shared with others.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself, as it relates to your heritage.
When I was a kid, there was a fiesta parade every year to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. My mom, much to her amusement, would dress me up in a little mariachi outfit to throw out candy.
At the time, I felt a little embarrassed standing on the float playing my best air guitar. But now I’m extremely proud that at a young age I was already celebrating and sharing my culture.
My family has always felt the importance to pass down our cultural traditions through amazing food, music and holidays. I look forward to continuing to teach and share these traditions with my family.
Who or what would you say was your greatest influence for your career?
When I graduated college years ago, there were two managers who took a chance and gave me a shot. I didn’t have much industry experience or a technical background. But they took time to mentor and coach me.
That mentorship is something I am extremely grateful for and look to pay forward. Leading and mentoring others is a major part of my job, and something I have a passion for.
In your opinion, what challenges remain for Hispanic Americans today and how can understanding history help us overcome them?
Socioeconomic issues and bigotry continue to be challenges for the growing Hispanic culture. Overcoming these challenges is extremely complicated but are issues that should be given a platform.
History has always shown that combining different cultures, traditions and perspectives lead to greater societies and innovation. Hispanic Heritage Month may only be for a few weeks, but it’s an important time to bring lasting awareness to cultural challenges and share the beauty of Hispanic culture.
What does it mean to you that System Soft celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month?
It means a lot to me! System Soft is an inclusive and diverse company that celebrates and recognizes many different cultures.
It’s very exciting to be a part of a positive and embracing company like System Soft Technologies.
Hispanic Heritage Month Journey on Social
Throughout the month-long celebration, follow and interact with System Soft’s commemorative journey on our social media. Across our platforms, we will highlight famous quotes, fun facts, infographics and inspirational stories.
See what’s on our LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
On our blog, we will spotlight other System Soft employees who are part of the Hispanic and Latino communities, as we stay committed to our mission and core values, appreciating the support and kindness we give each other.