PRSA Dallas | Hispanic Heritage Month 2021
Posted by admin on Sep. 10, 2021 / Subscribe 0
Getting Hispanic Heritage Month Right
by Mara Silverio, Culture Communications & PR Consultant, PRSA Dallas D&I Committee Member
Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) is an official annual designation (Sep. 15 – Oct. 15) intended to honor Hispanic excellence in America. This year, PRSA Dallas seeks to provide organizations with five simple tips to “getting HHM right” with the goal of helping companies reevaluate their HHM strategy and maintain the essence and integrity of the celebratory observation.
Tip #1: Rethink Your Call-to-Action
- HHM is not an opportunity to promote a product, nor to engage the Hispanic market to learn more about a company and its services.
- A genuine approach doesn’t include a call-to-action that seeks to benefit or profit an organization, it conveys positivity, appreciation and seeks to give rather than get.
Tip #2: Spread the Love
- Many organizations resort to highlighting the same individuals because it might be easier to recognize their contributions.
- Consider digging deeper and highlighting the unlikely contributor. This can include non-Hispanic allies, introverts who may often be overlooked, external stakeholders or quotes from diverse people that impart unique perspectives and experiences about Hispanic heritage in America.
Tip #3: Be Aware of Sensitivities
- Not allocating enough time to conduct proper research and check facts; or observing HHM as an after-thought can result in disconnect or discord.
- Conduct a simple poll asking staff for ideas and feedback prior to or after the month-long celebration to gain a broader, diverse perspective.
Tip #4: When in Doubt, Consult
- Flying under the radar or checking a box is obvious and sends a message.
- Investing in “getting it right” by hiring professionals with the cultural competencies and knowledge of sensitivities is not only appropriate, but also sends a message. One that shows you care.
Tip #5: Give Yourself Credit
- Nobody will “get it right” 100% of the time. Avoid analysis paralysis.
- If you have an HHM strategy in place and seek to genuinely acknowledge the richness of Hispanic heritage and its advancements – congrats! And don’t forget to give yourself credit for your efforts in helping to make the world a more inclusive place.
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