Tribute to 25 Years of Empowerment and Progress
By Edie Fraser, Chair, Women Business Collaborative (WBC)
Celebrating a quarter of a century of the LATINA Style 50 Awards & Diversity Leaders Conference is truly monumental. As one of the staunch supporters of LATINA Style and its enriching programs for over two decades, congratulations for all you have done to elevate LATINAS. My journey alongside LATINA Style has been filled with witnessing empowering stories, groundbreaking events, and shared moments of pride. So many others see a pathway forward because of the role models who have profiled and honored. Let me personally salute my friend Robert Bard and wife, Lupita Colmenero, who joined him, Praise for all you have done for corporate America, entrepreneurs, and the Military. Yesterday and today: When I reflect on the past 25 years, it's astonishing to realize that there were only three Latinas in Congress and now 18, still so few; meager numbers in the C-Suite and leadership roles.
Compare to Latinos at 19 percent of the population and 5 percent of boards but a low percentage of Latinas. Today, it's heartening to see the ascent of Latinas in various spheres, and yet we need more in every institution. In the corporate world, the narrative of Latinas in the C-Suite was once a rarity. Today, it's a burgeoning reality. Latinas are not only occupying seats in boardrooms, but are also steering multinational corporations with finesse and vision.
There is only one Latina CEO today in the Fortune ranks and that is Fannie Mae. Latinas are growing as entrepreneurs and LATINA Style holds forums for them. Yet the demographics of the population and the spending power tell us more and more. U.S. Latino GDP is now valued at $3.2 trillion (14% YOY increase), growing 2.5x faster than the non-Latino equivalent according to L’ATTITUDE release Sept. 2023.
In salute to every Latina who has been a part of this incredible journey, we say, "Gracias." To you, LATINA Style and to HACR, LCDA, and others. The legacy is the inspiration that propels us forward, and your achievements are the milestones that remind us of how far we've come and how much further we can go. This growth isn't just about numbers, but it represents the tenacity, resilience, and passion of the Latina community and the leadership exemplified by LATINA Style. Continue the legacy of excellence that LATINA Style embodies.
In my perspective, the future of Latinas is radiant. We are now present in boardrooms, leading global conglomerates, pioneering in tech, and making strides in every sector imaginable. Our influence is expanding, and as newer generations come of age, I foresee a future where Latinas will be at the forefront of global change, innovation, and leadership.
To our esteemed readers, the mission of LATINA Style goes beyond just acknowledging achievements. It's about building a community, creating spaces where Latinas can thrive, and ensuring our voices are heard and stories are told. I urge all of you to embrace this mission and support one another.
LATINAStyle Vol. 29, No. 5, 2023