Henry Cisneros on the Future of Ethnicity in America

By Elizabeth Macanufo 

This article first appeared in the Fall 2008 issue of IN magazine.

Henry Cisneros resides in San Antonio, Texas, the town that allowed him to make his mark as the first Mexican-American mayor of a major U.S. city. Living in a home previously owned by his grandparents, his neighborhood is truly a family affair; his sister-in-law lives across the street, and his brother lives on the same block. Beyond his family, Cisneros still boasts a kinship with the town in which he was raised. Keeping in contact with the community, he witnesses his peers taking advantage of the “American dream” by pursuing an education and creating business ventures.

Currently the chairman of CityView companies, Cisneros develops quality housing for America’s working families. His résumé also includes president and chief operating officer of Univision Communications and Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

His understanding of the struggles his diverse community faces, vast knowledge of public policy and experience with a Hispanic-oriented business enable Cisneros an informed perspective on the future of ethnicity in America. He shared his views at the Orientation Program as the keynote speaker at the Thorp Luncheon and received a standing ovation. IN magazine interviewed Cisneros to discuss his experience at the Orientation Program, the role of underrepresented populations in corporate America and more.

Q: Since your rise in politics, how do you think the role of minorities has changed in corporate America?

A: I am happy to see so many minorities in corporate life. Corporations are recognizing that they do better as they relate to emerging markets with a diverse staff. They’re employing a work force representative of America. They’re getting a mix of ideas and backgrounds. They’re reaching out to the public in their messaging. They recognize that hiring minorities is not good will, but core business strategy. We’re seeing more hires and more training. Corporations are beginning to look like the country.

Corporations have to recruit more astutely. Programs like The Consortium are a big part of the answer. The Consortium identifies the brightest and most motivated students. They’re in position to learn, test their meddle, see the workplace and meet others. They get encouragement to identify mentors and role models and to seek financial support. The Consortium is a part of the answer, and programs like it should be encouraged.

Q: In your speech at the Orientation Program, you mentioned “the new Americans.” Who comprises this group?