Welcome to the Golden Gate Bridge District’s April Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Newsletter Highlighting news, events, resources and opportunities related to DEI topics |
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In 2004, April was designated as Diversity Month by two American consulting firms. Diversity month is aimed at celebrating and acknowledging the rich tapestryof diversity in our world. Through the celebration of various cultures, heritages, backgrounds, ethnicities, religions, genders, races, origins, and myriad other aspects of identity, individuals are encouraged to embrace and appreciate both the differences and similarities among us. By doing so, we begin to foster a deeper understanding of how to interact with one another and respect each other for our unique identities and perspectives. Ways you can celebrate diversity is by learning about the people you work with at the District. Engage in respectful conversation with individuals that share more differences than similarities. Indulge in cultural cuisine, film, exhibits, music, and art. You can also support nonprofit organizations that preserve cultural heritage by volunteering your time or donating monetarily. |
NATIONAL ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE |
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National Arab American Heritage Month is recognized in the month of April. This is a time when we join together to celebrate and honor the great accomplishments, diverse backgrounds, and unique traditions of Arab Americans who have significantly enriched our nation. Among the notable contributions made by Arab Americans are major groundbreaking advancements such as the development of liquid crystal display (LCD) screens, the invention of the delicious waffle cone, and the pioneering work in emotional recognition technology. Additionally, Arab American innovators have played pivotal roles in the creation of iconic devices like the iPod and iPhone, the development of special units used to provide crucial surgical care to soldiers such as (Mobile Auxiliary Surgical Hospital (MASH)) units, and the development of security technologies such as Security Sockets Layer (SSL) protocols, safeguarding e-mail and instant messaging. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, over 3.5 million people reported their descent as Middle Eastern and North African (MENA). At the District, the Arab workforce constitutes approximately less than 1.4%. For a comprehensive understanding of Arab cultural awareness, refer to this 58 Factsheet. In the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar year, Ramadan is recognized and significant for Muslims worldwide. Ramadan is a time of fasting, praying, reflecting, and embracing community. Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs from sunrise to sunset. At the conclusion of Ramadan, there is a celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival that includes communal prayers, feasting, and exchanging gifts. Eid al-Fitr serves as a time of gratitude, forgiveness, and renewal of familial and social bonds. This celebration relates to Christmas in some American cultures. |
MEET RAHMAN NATOUF Rahman Natouf, a native of a village near Damascus, the Capital of Syria, grew up immersed in Arabic culture and language, mastering speaking, reading, and writing fluently. In 1988, at the age of 24, Mr. Natouf made the life-altering decision to relocate to the United States. Initially, Mr. Natouf co-owned a family business alongside his brother in Alameda, California, before selling his share. In 1997, Mr. Natouf married his beloved wife Carlena Natouf who is a Customer Relations Supervisor for the District. Together they have a beautiful son. In 2009, Mr. Natouf pursued a career as a Bus Operator for the District, a role he passionately embraces. Not only is Mr. Natouf very hospitable and kind, he has gone to the extent of learning many different languages to greet customers who ride his bus! "Life as a Syrian is simple", says Mr. Natouf. Syrian families usually remain rooted in one location for generations, fostering tight-knit communities where the family bond includes neighbors. The influence of both Islam and Christian traditions is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Syrian society. "Syrians, like most Arab countries, like to congregate in large gatherings such as weddings, funerals, graduations, and places of worship. There is a strong sense of empathy that is expressed with lots of celebrations, laughter, and crying together." Moreover, the love of music and traditional dance "Dabkeh" originating from Palestine, embodies the rich tapestry of the region's heritage. Generosity among Arabs extends beyond monetary contributions as their willingness to support both family members and those who are less fortunate is profound. Sharing food is the most common way to show acts of kindness, symbolizing hospitality and camaraderie. "Arabs are very loving and protective of their families but also stand with the weak against transgressors and do not tolerate abuse", says Mr. Natouf. Respect for all individuals, especially elders, is a cornerstone of Arab values. |
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HAPPY NATIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS DAY! APRIL 24, 2024 |
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Administrative Professionals Day is celebrated on April 24th. The District recognizes and celebrates the work of our administrative assistants and office professionals for their contributions to the workplace. Meet a few of our office professionals. Patricia Slater, Administrative Assistant DGM (Administration & Development) - Keyairra Murray, HR Coordinator - Jacqueline Vega-Soberano, Administrative Assistant DGM (Bridge) - Jennifer Rothenberg, Supervising Administrative Assistant DGM (Bus) - Collette Slottow, Office Assistant (Bus Division) |
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- Reduce, reuse, and recycle. Cut down on what you throw away. Follow the three "R's" to conserve natural resources and landfill space.
- Volunteer. Volunteer for cleanups in your community. You can get involved in protecting your watershed, too.
- Educate. When you further your own education, you can help others understand the importance and value of our natural resources.
- Conserve water. The less water you use, the less runoff and wastewater that eventually end up in the ocean.
- Choose sustainable. Learn how to make smart seafood choices at www.fishwatch.gov.
- Shop wisely. Buy less plastic and bring a reusable shopping bag.
- Use long-lasting light bulbs. Energy-efficient light bulbs reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Also, flip the light switch off when you leave the room!
- Plant a tree. Trees provide food and oxygen. They help save energy, clean the air, and help combat climate change.
- Don't send chemicals into our waterways. Choose non-toxic chemicals in the home and office.
- Bike more. Drive less.
FTA's Climate ChallengeJoin FTA for a virtual Earth Day Event on April 22nd at 11:00 AM (PST) to celebrate the success of Phase 3 of its Sustainable Transit for a Healthy Planet Challenge hosted by Acting Administrator, Veronica Vanterpool. Register here. |
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DISTRICT VALUE HIGHLIGHT ACCOUNTABILITY "We are responsible for our words, actions, and results." نحن مسؤولون عن أقوالنا وأفعالنا ونتائجنا.
nahn maswuwlun ean 'aqwalina wa'afealina wanatayijina
Visit the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion page on the Intranet If you are interested in being featured in the monthly newsletter, click here. Presented by: EEO and Workforce Inclusion Department |
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