As a result of advances in transportation and technology, the
United States is increasingly becoming a diverse and multicultural
society. Estimates reveal that over half of the population of the United
States is currently comprised of ethnic groups.
Multiculturalism is a growing trend which impacts the products
we develop and the services we provide. Visually, ad agencies are
striving to find the looks which represents us all. Ethnic origins
aren’t being left behind, as they once were when the picture of America
was a ‘melting pot.’ Today, the uniqueness of varying cultures and
traditions are welcomed and encouraged.
From Hispanic-market.com, here are a few statistics that
should start you on your way as you research the potential needs of all
the cultures you serve.
- By some estimates the Hispanic population in the United States
already equals the African American population and is poised to soon
make up the largest single ethnic group.
- The number of Hispanics in the United States is greater than the
entire population of Canada.
- According to Census 2000, Hispanics currently comprise 12.5% (35.3
million) of the nation’s population (283.8 million) growing at a faster
rate than the general market population, more than 60 percent in the
last decade.
- Hispanic buying power is growing triple the rate of inflation, a
faster rate than that of the general market. Hispanics are younger than
the overall US population.
Transforming Tomorrow
Here is an excerpt from a little book I have recently enjoyed
reading, The Only Necessary Thing by Henri Nouwen. Perhaps it will
help you realize, for just a moment, how important you are in the world:
"Community is like a large mosaic. Each little piece seems so
insignificant. One piece is bright red, another cold blue or dull
green, another warm purple, another sharp yellow, another shining gold.
Some look precious, others ordinary. Some look valuable, others
worthless. Some look gaudy, others delicate. As individual stones, we
can do little with them except compare them and judge their beauty and
value. When, however, all these little stones are brought together in
one big mosaic, who would ever question the importance of any one of
them? If one of them, even the least spectacular one is missing, the
image is incomplete. Together in the one mosaic, each little stone is
indispensable and makes a unique contribution."
Let’s enjoy and celebrate our differences, since we are all part of the mosaic of life,
and the picture wouldn’t be complete without you.
Published: July 24, 2001
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