In a recent panel discussion on Hispanic Heritage Month, industry leaders gathered to share their personal experiences and strategies for enhancing diversity within organizations. This conversation, featuring Juan Amador, Victor Cora Nazario, and Abigail Bayer, offered valuable insights into how associations can better engage their member communities and foster inclusivity. 

Understanding the Impact of Personal Identity

Juan Amador shared his journey of navigating his Latino identity within a predominantly non-Latino workplace. Reflecting on his past, Amador admitted, “Usually I don’t talk about this. I learned to assimilate real quickly over the years.” His experience underscores the internal conflict many face when their cultural identity does not align with their professional environment. This realization prompted Amador to embrace Hispanic Heritage Month more actively this year. “For this year, I think it was important for me to embrace Hispanic Heritage Month,” he explained, highlighting his commitment to amplifying the voices of his community.

The Role of Representation and Visibility

Victor Cora Nazario, a Puerto Rican, discussed his perspective on celebrating Hispanic heritage. He remarked, “As a Puerto Rican coming from the island, we celebrate Hispanic heritage all the time.” This constant celebration, embedded in daily life, contrasts with his experiences in professional settings where he often felt isolated. Nazario’s approach involves bridging gaps within organizations, aiming to create visibility and representation for underrepresented groups. “I learned the other day that there are bridge builders, those who feel it’s not their job to educate, and those who are just angry,” he noted, emphasizing the need for active leadership in fostering inclusive environments.

Leveraging Industry Platforms for Broader Impact

The conversation also explored how associations can leverage their platforms to advocate for broader industry changes. Abigail Bayer, who identifies as a Latino woman, stressed the importance of using one’s position to support and elevate diverse voices. “Use the platform you have to talk about these things,” Bayer advised. She emphasized the role of associations in representing their members and suggested fostering relationships with sub-organizations and micro-communities to enrich engagement. “Bring them into the office, invite them to speak on a panel at your conference,” Bayer recommended, highlighting practical steps for integrating diverse perspectives into organizational activities.

Co-Creation and Inclusive Practices

One of the panel's recurring themes was the concept of co-creation, a process central to effective member engagement. Michael Hoffman, the moderator, linked this concept to the work done at Gather Voices, which emphasizes collaborative content creation with members. “Co-creating our content with them not only brings more interesting and beneficial insights but also lifts up diverse voices,” Hoffman noted. This approach aligns with the broader goal of building an inclusive culture where every member’s contribution is valued.

Challenges in Supplier Diversity

The discussion also touched upon the challenges in supplier diversity initiatives. Aurora, a participant, highlighted systemic barriers that prevent working with disadvantaged businesses. This issue reflects a broader problem within many organizations where supplier diversity is more talk than action. Amador shared a practical example from a Chicago-based institution that integrated diversity into their procurement processes. “Every contract had to be viewed by the chief diversity and equity officer,” he explained, showcasing how intentional practices can drive meaningful change.

Strategies for Effective Member Engagement

To enhance member engagement and inclusivity, the panelists provided several strategies:

1. ‍Invest in Diversity Roles: Amador stressed the importance of matching resources to diversity roles. “It’s crucial to give the diversity officer the support and autonomy they need,” he said. This investment not only supports individual growth but also drives organizational change.‍
2. Embrace Co-Creation: Hoffman and Bayer both emphasized the value of co-creating content and initiatives with members. By involving members in the process, organizations can ensure that diverse voices are heard and represented.‍
3. Utilize Industry Platforms: Bayer encouraged leveraging the organization’s platform to support diverse voices and foster industry-wide dialogue. “Use the spotlight to talk about these things,” she advised.‍
4. Address Systemic Barriers: Nazario and Amador highlighted the need to address systemic issues in supplier diversity and recruitment. By intentionally seeking out and supporting underrepresented vendors and talent, organizations can contribute to broader economic and social equity.‍
5. Mentoring and Sponsorship: Amador also advocated for mentoring and sponsoring underrepresented individuals within organizations. “Invite them to grow and be the spokesperson,” he suggested, underscoring the impact of leadership in fostering inclusivity.

Conclusion

The discussion on Hispanic Heritage Month provided a rich tapestry of insights into how associations can enhance member engagement through diversity and inclusion. By embracing personal identities, leveraging industry platforms, and actively addressing systemic barriers, organizations can create a more inclusive environment that reflects the diverse experiences of their members. As the panelists illustrated, the journey toward inclusivity is ongoing and requires commitment, collaboration, and a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.

For organizations looking to enhance their member engagement and inclusivity, the panel’s insights offer practical strategies and a call to action. By integrating these practices into their operations, associations can build stronger, more representative communities and drive positive change both within and beyond their membership.