Hispanic Heritage Month at Banfield

Hispanic Heritage Month at Banfield

Equity, inclusion, and diversity are integral to our mission at Banfield. We have seven diversity resource groups (DRGs), all led by Banfield associates. One of those groups is Unidos, whose mission is to “influence and strengthen Banfield’s relationship with the Latinx community through culturally competent care.”

For Hispanic Heritage Month, Unidos is spearheading an exciting schedule of events for associates, including cooking classes, loteria, and panel discussions. 

We talked to Benjamin Macuil Rojas (he/him), DVM, Area Chief of Staff for AZ West and Interim Director of Veterinary Quality, about his involvement in Unidos and what Hispanic Heritage Month means to him. 
 
How long has Unidos been in existence? 
I have been a part of Unidos for around 3 years, and the DRG has been around for a bit longer than that!

What are some of Unidos achievements/events you're most of proud of? 
I think the part that I am most proud of is that sense of belonging we have built for all the associates who are part of the group. Feeling welcomed and included and important in the workplace is just amazing, and knowing that we can make a difference for all the clients and their pets who are part of the community. Also, the relationships that we’ve built with associates from around the country are amazing, and we feel like family even if it’s the first time we meet in person.
 
Which event are you most looking forward to for this year's Hispanic Heritage Month? 
Everything! But I am thrilled about the cooking sections and also loteria.
 
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? 

It is an opportunity to recognize the impact that the Hispanic/Latinx community has had in the country, how important we are in today’s society, and how we can show the ones that come after us that they can also become impactful leaders in our community and make a difference for everyone still facing injustice and discrimination. It’s also a great opportunity to get to know each other and [understand] how rich of a community we are through our similarities and our differences.
 
Is there anything else you'd like readers to know about you or Unidos?
[If you work for Banfield], join Unidos today! We are an awesome group looking to empower each other and building bridges across the country, helping and supporting each other! We are truly familia!
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