MAPEI Virginia celebrates Diversity Day with a feast of cultures

For the second year in a row, MAPEI’s Fredericksburg, Virginia, facility embraced the spirit of diversity with a day that was dedicated to celebrating the rich and varied backgrounds of its employees. Diversity Day 2024 was filled with vibrant displays of culture, heritage and tradition, with employees encouraged to showcase their unique backgrounds through art, clothing, music and, most notably, food.

The event featured a diverse array of culinary delights, highlighting the many flavors of the MAPEI family. From empanadas representing Colombia and jollof rice from Nigeria to Puerto Rican arroz mamposteao and flan, the day was a true celebration of the world’s cuisine.

Employees also brought foods such as Polish golumpki and sausage, El Salvadoran pupusas and horchata, Virginian ham and even Ohio’s famous buckeye candy. This feast of cultures provided everyone a chance to taste dishes that they may never have experienced before and learn about the heritage that is behind each dish.

To add an interactive element, the facility included maps of Virginia, the United States and the world, allowing employees to place pins and mark their places of origin or their ancestral roots. This visual representation of diversity sparked many conversations and connections among team members.

To commemorate the day, MAPEI distributed water bottles and sunglasses to all employees, adding a fun and practical touch to the celebration. The event not only allowed employees to share their heritage but also reinforced MAPEI’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture where everyone feels valued and heard.

Diversity Day has quickly become a beloved tradition at the Virginia facility, echoing earlier celebrations that were held at MAPEI’s Swedesboro, New Jersey, location before the pandemic. As the event grows, so does MAPEI’s dedication to celebrating the unique contributions of each team member, creating a workplace where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated.