By Jim Giammarinaro
President & CEO of the MetroWest Chamber of Commerce
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FRAMINGHAM – Our chamber is at the early stages of our collaboration with underrepresented populations and businesses. Hispanics are an important part of our community and have many thriving businesses throughout MetroWest. We are all aware of the changing demographic occurring throughout our communities and workplaces. Some estimates show that 40% of our workforce will be non-white in the near future. We must come together as a business community to make our work places inclusive of all populations. Diversity is not only the right thing to do, it is the smart thing to do for overall organizational success.
There are 11 million open positions in our country and 9.5 million unemployed citizens. Even with the end of extended jobless benefits, the needle is not moving too much in filling these open positions. Organizations who want to fill their open positions must broaden their thinking to include individuals from diverse background including other ethnicities, as well our veteran population and people with disabilities.
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A key to a healthy and growing economy will be to embrace our Hispanic community and
recognize their impact in out society.
Thursday, the Chamber is holding “Beyond Translations” at The Verve Tapestry Collection on Rte. 9 in Natick from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.
We hope you will be able to joining us. If you would like to register, please contact jim@metrowest.com or register on our website.
In addition, please read the article below by our Thursday speaker Eduardo Crespo on “Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month”, which September 15 to October 15.
By Eduardo Crespo
CEO, Hispanic Market Solution
Lawrence, MA
ecrespo@hispanicmarketsolution.com
President George H. W. Bush first proclaimed Hispanic Heritage Month on September 14, 1989, to honor the achievements of Hispanic Americans. September 15 was chosen as the commemorative starting point because it is the anniversary of the independence of five Hispanic countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, who all declared independence in 1821. In addition, Mexico, Chile, and Belize celebrate their independence days on September 16, September 18, and September 21, respectively.
It celebrates the accomplishments of Hispanic Americans, who have enriched our culture and society and helped make America into the incredible country it is today. Hispanic-American men and women embody the American values of devotion to faith and family, hard work, and patriotism through their countless contributions as leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and members of our Armed Forces.
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During this period, we honor Hispanic Americans for their countless contributions to our Nation. Their dedication to family, community, and our country, they help build a better future for all Americans. In addition, they continue to support our economy and society as business owners, professionals, teachers, and public servants, and we should all recognize their achievements and contributions to our national story.
The United States Hispanic market’s unprecedented growth in income and a significant important workforce sector have created immense opportunities in the marketplace. Indeed, progressive, market-driven brands and employers are creating.
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Editor’s Note: SOURCE and the MetroWest Chamber have formed a partnership. The Chamber’s column will run on Tuesdays on the digital news media outlet.
MetroWest Medical Center