Supporting Our Hispanic Colleagues: A Guide for Hispanic Heritage Month and Beyond

Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15, and it's the perfect time to help employees learn, connect, and celebrate culture in the workplace. But true support for our Hispanic and Latino colleagues extends far beyond a single month of celebration. As HR professionals and business leaders, we have both an opportunity and responsibility to create inclusive workplaces where all employees feel valued, protected, and empowered to thrive. 

Understanding the Current Landscape 

The Hispanic community represents one of the fastest-growing demographics in the American workforce, contributing significantly to industries ranging from agriculture and construction to technology and healthcare. However, Hispanic workers often face unique challenges that require thoughtful, informed support from their employers and colleagues. 

Recent events have highlighted the importance of understanding workplace rights and protections. The law says that ALL workers are entitled to information about their rights and training to perform their jobs safely in a language they understand. Employers and workers also should know that we enforce the law regardless of a worker's immigration status. 

Know Your Rights, Protect Your Team 

Fundamental Workplace Protections 

Every employee, regardless of immigration status, has certain fundamental rights that employers must respect and protect: 

• Right to Fair Treatment: This federal law prohibits: 1) citizenship status discrimination in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee, 2) national origin discrimination in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee - ensuring that all workers are treated equitably based on their qualifications and performance, not their background. 

• Right to Safety and Information: All people—no matter where we come from or our immigration status—should be paid fairly and be able to work in safe and healthy conditions. Safe workplaces mean employees can report abuse or labor violations without fear of deportation or retaliation by employers. 

• Right to Organize: The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) protects the rights of employees under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), regardless of immigration status. 

During Workplace Inspections 

Workplace inspections and enforcement actions can create anxiety and confusion for all employees. As an employer, it's important to have policies and procedures in place to handle these situations professionally and legally. 

We strongly recommend that employers work with qualified employment attorneys to develop comprehensive workplace inspection protocols that protect both the organization and all employees' rights. Having legal counsel available during such situations ensures compliance with federal law while supporting your workforce. 

Important Legal Developments  

Recent executive orders have introduced significant changes to immigration enforcement and workplace compliance requirements. These developments may impact how workplace inspections are conducted and what documentation employees may be required to provide. 

For current information about Executive Order 14159 ("Protecting the American People Against Invasion") and its implications for employers and employees, including registration requirements, warrant procedures, and constitutional protections, we recommend consulting with qualified employment counsel or reviewing official government resources at USCIS.gov and WhiteHouse.gov. 

Please note: This information is provided for general awareness only and does not constitute legal advice. Employment laws and enforcement procedures are complex and subject to change. Always consult with qualified legal counsel for guidance specific to your situation. 

I-9 Compliance and Audits  

I-9 compliance is a critical area where employers must balance legal requirements with employee support. During I-9 audits, employers face specific timelines and obligations that require careful handling. 

We recommend that all employers work closely with employment attorneys when facing I-9 audits to ensure proper compliance while protecting employee rights. Having established relationships with legal counsel before any audit occurs allows for swift, appropriate responses that support both business needs and employee welfare. 

Supporting Hispanic Heritage Month in the Workplace 

While understanding legal protections is essential, celebrating and supporting Hispanic heritage creates a more inclusive, welcoming environment for everyone. 

Meaningful Celebration Ideas 

Cultural Education and Awareness 

• Host presentations about Hispanic contributions to American history and culture 

• Give employees care packages full of goodies from Latinx owned businesses. This gesture not only treats employees, but also directly supports the Hispanic entrepreneur community. 

• Organize virtual tours of historic Hispanic landmarks 

Professional Development Support 

• Establish an Employee Resource Group for Hispanic or Latinx employees 

• Provide mentorship programs that connect Hispanic employees with leadership 

• Offer professional development workshops focused on career advancement 

Community Partnership 

• Donate to or partner with a non-profit organization that helps the Hispanic community 

• Support local Hispanic-owned businesses through procurement and partnerships 

• Volunteer for community organizations serving Hispanic families 

Creating Long-Term Support Systems 

Build Inclusive Leadership 

Ensure your leadership team is diverse (and if not, re-evaluate your recruiting process): representation matters at every level of the organization. When Hispanic employees see themselves reflected in leadership, it signals genuine commitment to inclusion and advancement opportunities. 

Develop Comprehensive Training Programs 

Train all employees and managers on: 

• Cultural sensitivity and unconscious bias 

• Legal rights and protections for all workers 

• How to support employees during times of uncertainty or stress 

• Creating inclusive communication practices 

• Supporting colleagues during times of stress or uncertainty 

Establish Clear Support Channels 

Create safe spaces where employees can: 

• Report discrimination or harassment without fear of retaliation 

• Access resources and information about their rights 

• Receive support during personal or professional challenges 

• Connect with employee resource groups and mentorship programs 

Moving Forward Together 

Supporting Hispanic colleagues isn't just about compliance or celebration—it's about recognizing the immense value that diverse perspectives bring to our organizations. When we create workplaces where all employees feel secure, respected, and valued, we build stronger, more innovative, and more successful businesses. 

When workplace enforcement actions occur in any community, they can create widespread fear and uncertainty that affects entire industries and local economies. These situations remind us that as employers, we have the power to create environments of trust and support that benefit everyone. By fostering inclusive, supportive workplaces year-round, we can help all employees feel secure and valued regardless of external circumstances. 

Your Action Plan 

This Hispanic Heritage Month, and throughout the year, commit to: 

1. Education: Learn about the legal rights and protections available to all workers 

2. Preparation: Develop clear policies and procedures for supporting employees during challenging times 

3. Celebration: Recognize and honor the contributions of Hispanic colleagues meaningfully 

4. Investment: Put resources behind inclusion initiatives that create lasting change 

5. Partnership: Connect with community organizations and Hispanic-owned businesses 

Remember, creating an inclusive workplace isn't a one-month initiative—it's an ongoing commitment to recognizing the humanity, dignity, and contributions of every team member. When we do this work well, we don't just comply with the law or check diversity boxes; we build organizations where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and contribute their best efforts toward shared success. 

At InvigorateHR, we believe that supporting all employees—regardless of their background—strengthens organizations and communities. For more resources on creating inclusive workplaces and understanding compliance, contact our team of HR experts.