In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Ingalls is celebrating the many shipbuilders who have Hispanic or Latin American roots. 

In addition to acknowledging how these communities have influenced and contributed to American society at large, Ingalls also recognizes the significant impact they have had on building our nation’s naval defense.

“Being Hispanic to me means carrying a heritage of history and diversity. We unite through the language and culture we share. I am grateful to HII for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment because we are stronger together,” said Francisco Santiago Rivera, general foreman, Electrical. “Despite our differences, we are one.”

“Hispanic heritage is a celebration of our resilient and determined community and recognizing the strength that arises from unity,” said Eury Pérez, industrial engineer. “What makes me Dominican is being brave and willing to face any obstacle that comes my way and the strong desire to have a better life for myself and my family. Being a Hispanic that came to the U.S.A., I have the opportunity to share my language, culture and experience from the Dominican Republic. HII is creating an inclusive environment that not only recognizes but values the differences of each person.”

Pascagoula, where Ingalls is located, has the highest share of Latino residents among Mississippi’s 20 biggest cities by a significant margin, with 15 percent of the city’s population identifying as Hispanic or Latino in the 2020 census.

 
Valuing diversity and inclusion is a critical component of the culture at Ingalls. Treating each other with respect, dignity and fairness is the key to bringing together talented people to build ships for the military that are safe, reliable and mission-ready. With more than 11,000 people in our workforce, every shipbuilder is an integral part of that mission. We are a team of individuals who are capable, flexible and diverse. You matter and you BELONG at Ingalls.

Employee resource groups, like Hispanic Outreach Leadership Alliance (HOLA), shine a light on our diversity and give shipbuilders a means to build community.
Recently, HOLA participated in the Festival Hispano de Pascagoula. Board members and volunteers with HOLA helped organize food, music, vendors and more for the festival to kickoff Hispanic Heritage Month.  

To learn more about HOLA or Ingalls ERGs, click here: IngallsConnect (goodbarber.app)