A Heartfelt Adios to Hispanic Heritage Month 2024
Published: October 15, 2024
As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the incredible support and engagement we’ve witnessed from our employees at Extreme Networks. Through social media, activities, and events, we have shared the rich culture, traditions, music, and heritage of the Hispanic and Latino community.
Since the inception of La Raza, Extreme’s employee resource group for Hispanics and Latinos, in 2019, we have seen a growing awareness and appreciation for Hispanic and Latino contributions globally. This year has been no exception, and we are thrilled to see this momentum continue. La Raza and the Extreme community are excited to carry this spirit of celebration and recognition forward, not just for one month, but all year long.
Celebrations from September 15 to October 15
Week 1: BBQ Extravaganza in Salem and San Jose
We were excited to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month with multiple in-person events! Attendees joined us for a mouth-watering BBQ sponsored by La Raza and the exCITe teams in Salem and San Jose. It was the perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy delicious food, and celebrate our vibrant community together.
On the same day, we got ready for some friendly competition with a virtual event, Coworker Feud! Inspired by the classic Family Feud game show, this event promised to be fun, engaging, and a fantastic team-building experience. Participants tested their knowledge and bonded with their colleagues – congratulations to Team Violeta for taking home the gold!
Week 2: Disney’s Encanto Movie Club Review with WIN Alliance and La Raza
We invited everyone to join us for an engaging movie review of Disney’s Encanto! The film takes place in the mountains of Colombia in a magical place called Encanto. The magic of Encanto has blessed every child in the Madrigal family with a unique gift—every child except Mirabel. However, Mirabel soon becomes the Madrigals’ last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding Encanto is in danger.
Some reviewers said the movie explored themes of generational trauma and family dysfunction. Others believed it portrayed the strength of community and family bonds, conveying the idea that people could find purpose in life if they were courageous and determined. We discussed how this film resonated with us, the Hispanic and Latino community, and shared our thoughts on its powerful messages.
Week 3: Virtual Latin-Inspired Cooking Demonstration
We went on a culinary adventure! In collaboration with FitPros, La Raza hosted a virtual cooking demonstration featuring delicious Latin-inspired dishes. This fun and interactive event was a treat for everyone’s taste buds. Participants had the exciting opportunity to watch a live cooking demonstration from the comfort of their own screens and engage with a skilled chef, who cooked Barbacoa Birria Tacos and Apple Nutty Nachos.
Week 4: Loteria - Mexican Bingo
We gathered for some friendly competition with a game of Loteria, a beloved Mexican bingo game! Whether participants were familiar with Loteria or completely new to it, this game brought so much joy and nostalgia.
Week 5: La Raza Hosted an Unforgettable Virtual Latin Concert for Everyone!
La Raza members immersed themselves in the vibrant rhythms and soulful melodies of Latin music! This wasn’t just any concert—it was a celebration of the tunes that had been the soundtrack to our lives. Whether people grew up dancing to these beats or had a cherished memory tied to a particular song, this event was truly unforgettable. We came together, shared our stories, and enjoyed great music that transcended generations.
What’s Next from La Raza?
The La Raza ERG is excited to support Núcleo Assistencial Brasilândia (NAB), a non-profit organization providing rehabilitation treatment for children and young adults with physical and mental disabilities in São Paulo, Brazil. This holiday season we have big plans to support NAB; Extreme employees will have the opportunity to sponsor a child and/or family!
Thank you to our ERG members and fellow co-workers for your unwavering support and enthusiasm over the course of Hispanic Heritage month and year-round. ¡Muchas gracias y hasta la próxima!