Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
According to the Library of Congress, the observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson, and then it was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15.
Wonder why this commemoration goes mid-month to mid-month?
September 15 is significant because it’s the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and 18, respectively. At the other end of this 30-day period is October 12. On that date, instead of Columbus Day, many Latin and Spanish-speaking countries, including Venezuela, Uruguay, Mexico, Honduras, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Chile, and Argentina, celebrate Dia De La Raza (Day of the Race).
It’s a holiday to celebrate the native heritage of Latin America and to honor the indigenous people of many of the countries that were conquered by Spain and other European colonizers. Instead of focusing on the religion and languages imposed on the Americas by Europeans, the original people’s rich cultures and lasting heritage are acknowledged and honored. The day advances a recognition of the sometimes-painful history behind the mix of cultures and the interconnectedness and complexity of Hispanic people all over the world.
We’re all about people, too!
Arka HR embodies this spirit of honor, respect, and dignity for all people. It is evident in our vision, our values, and our mission. We are a bilingual, multi-cultural, Latina-owned company with extensive professional expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Arka HR co-founders Marcela Aldaz-Matos and Andreina Viera Silva have built a team and a company by merging their unique individual strengths, varied and complementary experiences, and their common goal to leave a lasting, positive legacy. The organization they lead is anchored in their shared philosophy of servant leadership.
While traditional leadership (think conquerors/colonial power/Columbus) generally involves the accumulation and exercise of power by one at the “top of the pyramid,” servant leadership (think indigenous peoples/traditionally female values) is different. The servant-leader shares power, puts the needs of others first, and helps people develop and perform at their highest potential. This is how Arka HR supports its clients, fosters their priorities, and becomes their ally in the everyday quest for success.
Together, we’re better!
The Arka HR Team is a diverse group of dedicated professionals who strive to sustain our company culture and live by our company values every day. We bring clients our commitment to excellence and our heart for service. That’s what makes us Arka HR and a big part of what sets us apart.
The combination of Marcela’s executive experience and strength in strategy with Andreina’s commitment to people and their potential is a powerful mix of purpose and passion. They’ve had very different personal and professional lives that successfully mesh into a strong, durable organization. Like Hispanic Heritage, there’s beauty in the blend that provides a unique perspective, and strength from the roots of their origins, and undeniable competence that comes from the broad experiences intersecting at Arka HR.
Wishing you all a chance to reflect on Hispanic Heritage and the richness, history, and influence of Hispanic Culture on your life and times.
