At El Puente Institute, this is our response and call to action to Lean In's recent report on the state of Latinas in corporate America. We are dedicated to combating the trends highlighted in the report by focusing on the visibility and empowerment of Latinas, starting with the principle of "presente." Our mission is to ensure that Latinas are not just present but are seen, heard, and valued.
Our training programs focus on fostering cultural self-awareness and embracing our cultural scripts as a "superpower" rather than a deficit. We are flipping the script on traditional narratives and empowering Latinas to leverage their unique cultural heritage. This approach instills pride and resilience, enabling Latinas to navigate the corporate world with authenticity and confidence.
As the report points out, Latinas are often the "first and only" in the room. At El Puente, we are committed to ensuring they are not the last. We equip our community with essential leadership development tools, fostering a strong sense of self and a deep appreciation for Latino/Hispanic heritage. This cultural pride allows us to bring unique perspectives to the table, challenge outdated expectations, and confidently assert our place in all spaces.
Our approach, termed "Culturally Driven," means celebrating the rich tapestry of our culture and using it to guide our actions with purpose. This strong sense of self not only empowers individuals but also ensures that Latinas feel a sense of belonging in every room they enter.
The Lean In report underscores several alarming trends: a significant drop in Latina representation from entry-level positions to the C-suite, with only 1% of C-suite executives being Latina. This drop is not due to a lack of ambition; Latinas express higher interest in senior leadership roles than women overall. However, they face disproportionate barriers, including less managerial support for career advancement, reduced flexibility in work arrangements, and a higher likelihood of encountering microaggressions.
At El Puente, we address these challenges by providing comprehensive support and training. Our programs ensure that Latinas have the tools and confidence to overcome these barriers and thrive in leadership roles. We advocate for practical steps within organizations, such as debiasing performance reviews and promotions, ensuring equal access to flexible work options, and implementing targeted anti-bias and allyship training.
By fostering a culturally driven approach to leadership development, we aim to change the narrative for Latinas in corporate America. We are committed to not only being present but also paving the way for future generations to follow. Join us in this mission to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all.
Read the full report at: https://bit.ly/4emdn7X.
