Hispanic Heritage Month
Honoring the Contributions of Hispanic Workers in the Agricultural Industry
Hispanic Heritage Month, has been recognized annually from September 15 to October 15 since President Reagan expanded the celebration to “properly recognize the significant contributions Hispanic/Latino Americans have made in the United States.” It offers the opportunity to honor the rich history and culture of Hispanic and Latin American communities and is held during the timeframe when many countries celebrate their independence days, including Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
This month, let’s collectively commit to not only observing Hispanic Heritage Month, but to actively building a future where the essential contributions of Hispanic and Latin American individuals in agriculture are celebrated with pride but also consistently supported through equitable practices, dignified treatment and profound respect.
The Diverse Agricultural Workforce
Meet some Hispanic/Latin American workers in the agricultural industry and connect with the people behind the food we enjoy every day and it serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and supporting their invaluable contributions.
External Resources to Learn More about the Hispanic/Latino Culture
- Silicon Valley Latino – Campesinos: America’s Unsung Heroes
- National Museum of the American Latino
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- Pew Research Center – Key Facts about U.S. Latinos
- National Park Service – Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to reflect on the past, celebrate the present and look forward to a future where the contributions of all communities are recognized and valued.
More Than a Celebration
Hispanic Heritage Month serves as a recognition of the crucial role Hispanic and Latin American communities play in shaping the social, cultural and economic fabric of the United States.
It’s also crucial to remember that ‘Hispanic’ and ‘Latin American’ encompass incredibly diverse nations, Indigenous cultures and distinct traditions, languages and dialects. Each region and community contributes unique flavors, stories, knowledge and expertise. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to explore and appreciate it.
Throughout our time in the agricultural industry, EFI has been privileged to meet and work alongside remarkable individuals across various roles, from pruners and supervisors to researchers, managers and decision-makers. People of Hispanic and Latin American heritage have been instrumental in supporting the evolution of this industry, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives that enrich the sector.
These dedicated individuals ensure that fresh, delicious produce reaches tables across the country. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s vital to recognize the knowledge, resilience, dedication and passion of these workers, who play an indispensable role in sustaining one of the most critical industries in the nation.
Ways To Engage Workers
- Organize workshops, seminars or webinars featuring speakers who can provide insights into Hispanic and Latin American cultures, histories and contributions.
- Host cultural events, such as art exhibitions, dance performances or food festivals, showcasing the rich traditions of Hispanic and Latin American cultures.
- Feature the stories and achievements of Hispanic and Latin American employees within the company through internal newsletters, blogs or social media platforms.
- Engage in community service projects that benefit Hispanic and Latin American communities.
- Download and share these posts in your social:
Hispanic Heritage Month offers an opportunity to learn about and celebrate the diversity of Hispanic and Latin American Individuals in the U.S.
Join us for the celebration: What stories will you share for Hispanic Heritage Month? Send us an email at gro.doofelbatiuqe@aidem or share a social media post and use the hashtags #HispanicVoices #WorkerVoices.
At the heart of the Equitable Food Initiative’s mission is the unwavering belief that a thriving agricultural industry depends on the well-being of its workforce. EFI is grateful to our partners and EFI-certified farms for supporting us in creating the videos for Hispanic Heritage Month. We want to recognize the time and skills invested in this campaign by different workers at different organizations. Their stories, creativity and vision help us to celebrate their heritage while amplifying their voices.
Thank you, GoodFarms, NatureSweet, Once Upon a Farm and Rouge River Farms, for sharing such captivating stories.
