Kohl’s Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
By: Michelle A. Banks, Kohl’s Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor and celebrate the contributions and achievements of the Hispanic and Latin American communities. At Kohl’s, we’re proud to have associates, customers, community members, and partners who identify with these communities and whose contributions have made us a better place to work and grow.
I have had the privilege of visiting various countries in Latin America over the years, and every time I appreciate the culture, the warm hospitality and of course – the food, but especially the people. Earlier this month, I spoke with Kohl’s Hispanic y Latino Business Resource Group (HLBRG) members, who shared insight into what this month of celebration means to them, their families and their communities.
Get to Know a few of our Hispanic y Latino BRG Members
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you and how will you celebrate?
Meylin Perla, Store Manager, Coconut Creek, Fla., Hispanic y Latino BRG Field Ambassador - 8 Years with Kohl’s
Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to remember our history and traditions, celebrate our achievements and recognize and share the cultural richness of our people and communities. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the challenges that we face and work to create a place in which everyone can feel proud of their heritage. I was born in Guatemala, a country with Mayan heritage and Spanish colonial influences. From the intricate patterns woven into huipils and the vibrant colors adorning chicken buses to the deep to the Mayan and colonial architecture and picturesque landscapes, I grew up surrounded by a rich culture. These elements, along with the warm hospitality of its people, shaped my identity. While challenges exist, the beauty and resilience of my homeland are what I hold closest to my heart. Guatemala is more than just a place; it's a part of me.
When I was 11 my mom and I moved to the United States in search of a better life like many others. Since then, I've also had the privilege of expanding my cultural horizons at work and in my personal life. My little brother's Salvadoran heritage and my husband's Honduran roots have enriched our family, fostering a deep appreciation for the diversity within the Hispanic and Latino community. Together, we celebrate our shared heritage while embracing the unique qualities that define each of our cultures.
One way I'll be sharing a piece of my heritage is through a traditional dish of my country. I believe that food is a powerful way to connect with people and share traditions. Additionally, I'm excited to share one of my country’s traditions with my team. We have something called muñecas quitapena or worry dolls. These small, handmade dolls are deeply rooted in Mayan culture and hold a special place in my heart. Tradition says that you can confide your fears or worries to the dolls before bed. While you sleep, the dolls are said to absorb your worries, allowing for restful sleep. By morning, the dolls are said to have taken on your worries and fears.
What are some ways people can support the Hispanic y Latino community, not just during HHM but throughout the year?
To truly support the Hispanic and Latino community year-round, I believe people can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels not only valued but also needed. Encouraging courageous curiosity will help people recognize the rich diversity within our community and foster a deeper appreciation for our contributions. I think this would allow us to build lasting connections based on understanding and respect.
Those who don't know you very well would be surprised to learn that…
One unexpected aspect of my life is being the older sibling by 18 years. Outside of work, I find relaxation and fulfillment through creative outlets such as painting, crafting and baking.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, and how will you celebrate?
It means celebrating my culture and the rich heritage and history of the Hispanic community. I will enjoy celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with my family and serving my community through my church’s foodbank, where we provide free food to our community working together with the Houston Food Bank.
How has Kohl's supported the Hispanic y Latino communities, and how have you personally been involved in advancing these voices?
Amaury Brito, Product Designer, Houston, Texas, Hispanic y Latino BRG Customer Committee, 3 Years with Kohl’s
Kohl’s has given our community a platform to share our wealth of talent and knowledge and a safe space to celebrate our culture. I’ve had a chance to input my ideas to make Kohls.com even more accessible to the Spanish-speaking community. With the company's value of putting the customer first, we believe this initiative will provide a great customer experience to our Spanish-speaking customers and increase the trust and value that Kohl's brings to the Hispanic and Latino communities.
Those who don't know you very well would be surprised to learn that…
I grew up being the biggest wrestling fan, especially Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. I used to watch it in Spanish in the Dominican Republic where I was born, and later continued in English once I came to the U.S. in 2003. I was able to tell the whole routine of all the wrestlers at the time.
Those who don't know you very well would be surprised to learn that…
I grew up being the biggest wrestling fan, especially Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. I used to watch it in Spanish in the Dominican Republic where I was born, and later continued in English once I came to the U.S. in 2003. I was able to tell the whole routine of all the wrestlers at the time.
What is your connection to the Hispanic y Latino community and how will you celebrate this year?
I was born in Madrid, Spain, and lived there on and off for over 10 years. My father is Spanish, and my mother is American, born in New Orleans with Mexican heritage on her mother's side. Though I am bilingual, Spanish is my first language. This Hispanic Heritage Month, I'll be celebrating at work and at home with family and friends. I'll be coming together—enjoying life—through community, music, food, and laughter.
Desiree Barbeyto, VP Brand Creative, Creative Services & Studio, Hispanic y Latino BRG Group Leader, 12 Years at Kohl’s
What are some ways people can support the Hispanic y Latino community, not just during Hispanic Heritage Month but throughout the year?
Be curious, ask questions, engage. I find that people will open up if you ask questions. How did you make friends growing up? Asking about cultures, traditions, opportunities, and fears is universal. Take the first step in engaging during Hispanic Heritage Month—keep the conversations alive. Most importantly, join us—celebrate with us!
Kohl's is a strong advocate for diversity, and this includes the Hispanic y Latino community. From their community investment support to their Business resource groups to the Marketing that features beautiful Hispanic families and the Spanish language, I get to see so much of this firsthand from leading the teams that bring the marketing stories to life and also as the Executive Group leader of the Hispanic & Latino Business Resource group.
Those who don't know you very well would be surprised to learn that…
I grew up Internationally. In addition to living in Spain, I have also lived in Tokyo, Japan, and Hong Kong. I moved to the U.S. for college. Second fun fact: Before my fun career in retail, I was a professional singer and actress. I started singing TV jingles when I was in an all-girls pop group that toured around Asia in high school.
My conversations with Meylin, Amaury and Desiree were profound, and I am truly grateful to each of them for opening up and sharing their stories. I am always eager to learn more about the people who make our organization better, and I encourage everyone to listen to others’ experiences, goals, and culture during this month of recognition and beyond.
Supporting Hispanic y Latino Brands and Communities
During Hispanic Heritage Month and throughout the year, customers can also shop products influenced by the diverse tapestry of Hispanic culture and Hispanic y Latino-owned brands.
Our collection includes soaps, shower gels, and exfoliants from Mexican lifestyle brand Nopalera, beautiful throw blankets from Vialman made in Spain, and recycled glassware and decor from Vidrios San Miguel. Our popular Lil’ Libros books are favorites among kids, and this year’s collection focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) categories. Customers can shop Lil’ Libros books with new offerings from the brand throughout the year.
Our vendor, Global Goods, utilizes the talents and creativity of women in Guatemala and Mexico, and showcases ethical, handmade goods with modern designs.
Shop our Hispanic Heritage Month Collection here.
In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, Kohl’s will also invest $100,000 in the Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) to support services that enable and empower students, parents, scholars and alumni to set a course for academic and career success.
Michelle A. Banks
