Our network of employee and business resource groups helps to foster our Cultural Belief of Inclusion and Belonging and create an environment where people feel respected and valued as their authentic selves. Meet some of the members of our Black Leaders & Allies Advancing Cultural Knowledge (BLAACK) business resource group.
Danson
Hormel Foods has an incredible culture. From the first day I stepped into the office, I felt valued by my co-workers as well as management. The office I am currently in (Irvine hub) has a great sense of community and welcoming.
Danson K.
Do you have significant memories from or traditions in honor of Juneteenth?
A memory I have of Juneteenth is during a summer project for school, an event was organized to commemorate Juneteenth. At the time, I heard never heard of Juneteenth. During this event, we learned the history of Juneteenth, as well as traditions that take place. It was incredible to hear such history, especially because I had never heard about it before. Afterward, we had a huge water-balloon fight!
What motivated you to join the BLAACK business resource group?
What motivated me to join BLAACK is I wanted to get more involved with the corporation. Joining a BRG was a great way to not only get more involved but network with others outside my office as well as senior leadership. I also wanted to build connections with individuals who have a similar background across the company.
What about Hormel Foods makes you feel welcomed, accepted and supported?
Hormel Foods has an incredible culture. From the first day I stepped into the office, I felt valued by my co-workers as well as management. The office I am currently in (Irvine hub) has a great sense of community and welcoming. My thoughts and ideas are welcomed, and my voice is heard and valued.
What’s the best advice you would give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to step out of your comfort zone more. The more you do the things that make you uncomfortable, the more confidence it will bring you in the future.
Pierre
I was motivated to join BLAACK to support the BRG in its efforts to promote an understanding of the African American culture and support our company in creating a more inclusive environment that aligns with one of our key Cultural Beliefs, Inclusion and Belonging.
Pierre L.
What is the importance of Juneteenth and what does it mean to you personally?
I view Juneteenth as a date that marks the United States’ second independence day, a day on which the last of the enslaved Black people were granted their freedom two years after the Emancipation Proclamation became effective in 1863. This holiday illustrates hope and resilience for me while serving as a reminder that we as a society must continue to recognize and address the ongoing challenges regarding racial equality and social justice in America.
What motivated you to join the BLAACK business resource group?
The team members within BLAACK have been instrumental in creating a safe place for members of BLAACK to share experiences and challenges regarding underrepresented groups. I was motivated to join BLAACK to support the BRG in its efforts to promote an understanding of the African American culture and support our company in creating a more inclusive environment that aligns with one of our key Cultural Beliefs, Inclusion and Belonging.
What’s the best advice you would give your younger self?
The best advice I would give my younger self is to be patient with life. Despite setbacks that may be experienced in life, what is destined for you personally or professionally will eventually manifest itself with time, as long as you have the right attitude and work ethic.
How do you keep yourself inspired?
I reflect on those who came before me and work to understand the sacrifices made to give me the opportunities that I have today. I am also inspired by knowing that I have a responsibility to ensure that I am able to give back and support future generations as I pass the baton.
Opiew
The people [I work with] make it feel easier for me to open up at times and feel accepted, which is a great feeling.
Opiew O.
What motivated you to join the BLAACK business resource group?
Seeing how involved or active this BRG is was a great attention grabber for me. This ultimately made me eager and interested in joining.
What about Hormel Foods makes you feel welcomed, accepted and supported?
The people! I have not had a negative encounter yet with those I work with. The people make it feel easier for me to open up at times and feel accepted, which is a great feeling.
What’s the best advice you would give your younger self?
Believe in yourself, even if no one else does. Put 20% more effort in any and everything you do.
How do you keep yourself inspired?
I think about my family and my late father. It also helps to be working with inspired team members every day at the office.