Hispanic Heritage Month takes place in the US annually from 15th September to 15th October as a time to recognise and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures and extensive histories of the American Latinx community. Beginning in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month was originally observed as “Hispanic Heritage Week” under President Lyndon Johnson, but it was later extended to a month during President Ronald Reagan’s term in 1988.
Since then, the month has been celebrated nationwide through festivals, art shows, conferences, community gatherings and much more. The month also celebrates the independence days of several Latinx American countries, including: Cost Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on 15th September, Mexico on 16th September and Chile on 18th September. They also include holidays that recognise Hispanic contributions such as Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day that is celebrated in the US Virgin Islands.
As PHD recognises the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history and culture of the US, the PHD US team is highlighting a few Latinx PHDers who exemplify the PHD spirit.
Meet Stacy Gomez, Managing Director of Digital Activation, PHD US
What is your role? How long have you been at PHD?
Gomez: Managing Director, Digital Activation. It’s 11 years in November!
What is your Hispanic background?
Gomez: My dad grew up in NY and his parents are from Puerto Rico and Spain. My mom’s family is from Russia and Austria. I grew up in a diverse household where we celebrated both Hanukkah and Christmas – double the presents.
What Hispanic traditions do you incorporate in your daily life?
Gomez: Triple F(FF)… Family, friends and food. I’m super close with my family and consider my friends my family. Anyone who knows me, knows I’m all also about food (and drinks)!
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? Why is it important to have this type of month?
Gomez: It’s great to celebrate and pay tribute to the Hispanics that have had a positive influence on our heritage and have paved the path for us today.
What advice can you give other Hispanics/Latinos pursuing a career in media?
Gomez: There are so many paths to take in advertising. Expose yourself to as many areas of advertising as possible to figure out what’s best for you. No matter what, keep pushing on, asking questions and don’t give up! You’re amazing and you’ll do great things.
Fun question, what is your favorite Hispanic dish?
Gomez: Tacos and elote!!
