Celebremos: Honoring Hispanic Heritage at GM Financial
By Kris Scott / 12/09/2022 / Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The contributions, culture and history of individuals whose ancestors came from Central and South America, Spain, Mexico and the Caribbean are an important component of GM Financial’s corporate culture. This past year, GM Financial team members participated in celebrations honoring Hispanic heritage. Let’s reflect on those events and how the company continues to embrace a diverse and inclusive culture.
- An Appreciation for Hispanic Heritage
More than 16% of GM Financial’s U.S. workforce identify as Hispanic or Latino. Stories from team members, including Dulce Muñoz, Melissa Massie and Erik Beruvides, demonstrate the company’s commitment to an inclusive culture. Their willingness to share insight into their heritage helps foster meaningful relationships with business partners, customers and the community.
“I love my Mexican American heritage,” said Silvia Barrera, VP Operations, GM Protection. “GM Financial recognizing various cultures throughout the year is so impactful. As a Latina, being encouraged to share my culture and familial traditions with others creates a welcoming and fulfilling work environment.”
Silvia said it is just as important to learn about other cultures. She values opportunities for individuals to bring their “authentic selves” to work.
- Hecho en Fort Worth
As a member of the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (FWHCC), GM Financial was invited to attend the 49th annual gala celebrating local, minority-owned businesses in Fort Worth. In addition to showcasing the impact of local minority-owned businesses, community leaders were also honored with Businessman of the Year, Businesswoman of the Year, Community Advocate of the Year and Ambassador of the Year awards.
Angelica Trujillo Flores, AVP Customer Experience Training, took part in the celebratory gala.
“Events like this help bring minority business leaders together,” she said. “Listening to their stories of perseverance and the various accomplishments they’ve made in Fort Worth is inspiring. I’ll continue to support these leaders, as they prove how critical relationships are to future growth and development opportunities.”
- IMPACT Fort Worth
At the 2022 Employee Resource Group (ERG) Summit, another event hosted by the FWHCC, representatives from Fort Worth area ERGs gathered to discuss how companies in Fort Worth can better attract and retain diverse talent. GM Financial was a sponsor of this year’s summit, which allowed team members like Zulma Raiche, AVP Servicing Operations and Quality Assurance, to collaborate and reflect on culturally relevant diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
Zulma emphasized the importance of GM Financial sponsoring events that recognize the value of diversity.
“I immigrated from Chihuahua, Mexico, to the United States when I was 27 years old,” she said. “Events like these are important in getting to know other perspectives. I’m very proud to work for a company that is not only recognizing the value of having a diverse employee set, but actively seeking opportunities to support them.”
- Enriching the Employee Experience
Several other events took place across the company during Hispanic Heritage Month. At credit centers in San Antonio and Orlando, team members participated in group activities and shared stories about their family backgrounds. For those local to Fort Worth, GM Financial hosted a college fair, where a number of the participating colleges were Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Lastly, Mía Perdomo, co-founder and CEO of Aequales, was invited to present to the company’s Women’s Inspiration Network ERG. During the virtual presentation, Mia spoke about the implications of gender stereotypes and revealed how team members can create more equitable environments in their daily lives and in the workplace.
In line with General Motors’ goal to become one of the most inclusive businesses in the world, GM Financial will continue to champion diversity, equity and inclusion. Whether a prospective customer or a tenured team member, GM Financial is honored to share the events and stories that define the Culture to Win.
Come one, come all — Celebremos!
By Kris Scott, GM Financial
Kris Scott has a passion for writing and often uses his talent as a catalyst for social change, increasing knowledge and building communities. When he’s not spreading positive vibes, you’ll find him yelling “Hail Tide” — a moniker of support for both Mississippi State University and the University of Alabama.
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