Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month was first recognized in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson as a week-long observation and was expanded to 30 days in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan. Hispanic Heritage Month currently takes place Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, and we’re celebrating by highlighting our Hispanic/Latinx team members.
Here is what Account Manager of Group Sales, Rich Ramirez had to say.
What does Hispanic/Latinx representation mean to you?
Hispanic/Latinx representation is vital for me. To feel that we are represented, and that our representation is encouraged is incredibly meaningful. When I see people from the Latinx/Hispanic community represented it causes me to feel great pride! It shows that people who come from a similar walk of life as I do are not only present, but that they are encouraged to proudly represent our community for the world to see.
Why is Hispanic/Latinx representation important?
Being part of the Hispanic/Latinx community, it has not always come naturally to feel represented. I would say that it still does not come naturally. To feel represented does not just make someone feel proud to be a part of that community, but it can [also] motivate whole generations to strive for greatness.
What motivated you to want to work in this industry?
To work in sports has been a lifelong dream of mine, and to do so for my home-town team has meant everything. Basketball is not a sport in the Hispanic/Latinx community that you initially have at the forefront of your mind growing up. For me basketball was everything. Growing up in an era of basketball with the ‘Greatest Show on Court’, and J-Will making ridiculous passes, I quickly fell in love with the game. I knew some way, somehow, I had to work here. Lucky for me, I was born to amazing parents who encouraged me to work towards my goal, and as lofty as working in the NBA can seem, they never let me think it was too big or that the opportunity was too daunting.
What are some resources that helped you with your professional career?
Resource wise, I would say that the community of Sacramento and its surrounding areas have been my greatest resource. I have surrounded myself with such supportive people, and as a community Sacramento is wonderful. As a community they care so deeply, and that passion translates to the way that they embrace and encourage many of us in sports. The Hispanic/Latinx network is full of amazing people, and I could not be more proud to be a part of it. I owe much of my success to them.
What advice you would give to other members of the Hispanic/Latinx community who are looking to work in sports and entertainment?
The advice I would give is to surround yourself with people who champion your goals with you. It’s not easy to get to this point, and it takes a hunger for success to get here. They say it a lot in boxing, Hispanic boxers have that mentality where it doesn’t matter the size or skill of the opponent. They are going to keep coming forward and continue to attack. That is what it takes. Don’t allow yourself to be outworked.
Who is one person that inspires you in your life?
I would say that my wife is my greatest inspiration. When I told her that I wanted to switch careers, and really go after my dream of working in sports, she was right there supporting me, and reassuring me that I was making the right move. I consider myself to be very driven, but she inspired me to be greater than great.