As we continue to enjoy Hispanic Heritage Month, we are reminded that celebrations like these are not just about dates on a calendar, but about the vibrant stories and rich traditions that make our employee stories and our company culture so unique.

At Monument, we take pride in the incredible diversity that our employees bring to the table. To truly appreciate the significance of this month, we've asked two of our team members to share a glimpse into their heritage and cherished traditions.

Jose Espinoza, Maintenance Technician (Welder): “My Hispanic culture has brought my family closer together. We call it familialism, and it’s a concept that encourages us to make family a priority over all other aspect of one’s life. That same concept is part of my work ethic to take the best care of my coworkers. My background and heritage have influenced my workmanship and dedication to everything I do. One Hispanic tradition my family and I celebrate is “Rosca de Reyes,” which is similar to a King Cake celebration. And a culinary tradition we enjoy is the making of tamales.”   

Jose Flores, Operations Shift Team Leader: “My cultural background influenced me in many things, especially the way I value my job and my family. When I grew up in El Salvador, I had a rough childhood. My mom raised 5 kids on her own. She had me take afternoon classes in school so I could work in the morning to make a little money to help her in the household. I was one of the older siblings, so I helped her raise my little brothers. Those tough times instilled a mindset in me to always be responsible in any job that I had – and to try to do my best and help out in any way possible. When I started at Monument, I began in maintenance doing labor work. I then worked my way to doing Tank Cleaning and then Logistics. I eventually moved to Operations and then, to the position I am currently in as Shift Team Leader. I look back, and I’m very proud of the way I was raised because it gave me a sense of pride that anything is possible – and that I should never be afraid of work or learning new things.

“The Salvadoran holidays and celebrations reflect the country’s heritage and traditions – from colorful festivals like Semana Santa (Easter week) to patriotic Independence Day festivities. These events offer a glimpse into the nation’s traditions and passion for celebration, including events such as Holy Week, The Day of the Cross, the August festival of San Salvador, the Nejapa Balls of Fire, the festival of the Pupusa, the San Miguel carnival, Independence Day, and Christmas. Salvadoran holidays and celebrations combine religious traditions with unique indigenous and colonial customs. These popular festivities are celebrated, observed, and enjoyed by communities and people across the territory. Memories from these celebrations are deep in my heart, and they inspire me to go back to the community where I grew up – and remember that my cultural background and heritage that has molded me into the person I am today.”

These personal stories remind us that our company is more than just a workplace; it's a community of individuals with rich histories and traditions that enrich our shared experiences.

Join us in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by sharing your own stories and traditions in the comments below. Let's continue to learn from each other and be inspired by the unique stories of the people in your communities and beyond.