In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, DHR is recognizing and celebrating the achievements and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx champions who have inspired others to achieve success.
We sat down with Edgar Barillas, Senior Associate, and Jorge Herrera, Partner, to learn about their professional and personal insights.
Q: What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, and how has your heritage shaped who you are today?
Edgar: Hispanic Heritage Month is when we celebrate our rich culture, traditions, and our continued contributions to the world. Personally, I also take this time to reflect and gain inspiration from all the hard work and sacrifice my immigrant parents endured to give me a better life.
Jorge: My heritage has taught me to value the diversity of cultures and to appreciate how we all view and interpret the world in different ways. This month is an opportunity to honor the rich and varied cultural, social, and historical legacy of the Hispanic community. We should also recognize and celebrate the contributions of those who have enriched and continue to enrich not only the Hispanic community but also the diverse mosaic that makes up the U.S.
Q: What advice (personal or professional) would you give others of Hispanic/Latinx heritage?
Edgar: If you’re bilingual – embrace that gift! Also, be sure to get involved and join professional Hispanic groups and organizations. These provide you with great opportunities for networking, mentoring, and fostering that strong sense of community that is such a big part of our culture.
Jorge: Your Hispanic background is an asset that can help you achieve your goals and dreams. You have a rich cultural heritage, a diverse perspective, and a bilingual advantage that can open many doors for you in the professional world. Embrace your identity and use it as a source of strength and inspiration. Pursue what matters to you, what makes you happy, and what aligns with your values and passions. You have the potential to make a positive impact in your field and in your community. Be proud of who you are and what you can offer.
Q: How do you plan on celebrating this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month?
Edgar: During this month, we also celebrate the Independence Day of many countries in Latin America, including my beautiful, native Guatemala. So there will be plenty of festivities, great music, and delicious Guatemalan dishes like tamales, fiambre and atol de elote.
Jorge: I want to celebrate by expressing my gratitude to the people who have shaped my identity and supported me throughout my life. My family, friends, and colleagues are more than just relationships, they are part of who I am as a person. I also plan to enjoy delicious dishes from Bolivia, the country where I was born, and share them with others.