We’ve experienced impactful global, national and local events that have interrupted our day-to-day functions, drawing attention to the deep cracks in our social fabric. With our growing local population, people of varied cultures, experiences and backgrounds are calling Idaho home. Fear and misunderstanding are pervasive – we must learn how to discuss differences productively and find mutuality in our communities. The need for connection and inclusive communities requires that we take action.
Register for the seventh annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Summit – “Unite Idaho! Celebrating Differences and Building Belonging” – that will be held virtually Oct. 19-20. Over two half-days, participants will engage in crucial conversations anchored in growth while deepening one’s understanding of how diversity, equity and inclusion lifts us all.
This year’s summit supports three of the four strategies of Blue Sky Institute’s DEI strategic plan: building awareness of the human and business value of diversity and inclusion, connecting the community with diversity and inclusion knowledge, and creating collaborative opportunities for action. The summit provides tools and strategies that participants can use in their personal and professional lives.
The 2020 virtual summit hosted 735 people from 76 organizations and 29 unique industries. It was self-sustaining, raising $42,500 in sponsorships from 23 academic, government and business organizations – more than doubling the sponsorship amount from 2019. Not only did stakeholders from across Idaho attend last year’s summit but also people located around the world. Organizers are hopeful that the number of participants will surpass that of their previous events.
“We love that a virtual summit allows us to reach more participants across our state and beyond,” said Blue Sky Institute Program Manager Kodi Romero.
Registration is open now and closes Friday, Oct. 8. Tickets for faculty, staff, and students cost $25, and general admission is $75.
Although the event will be virtual again, opportunities to connect with others safely in person will be offered throughout the state as part of the summit’s programming. Social hours will be hosted on Oct. 19 following the first day of the summit in Boise, Caldwell, Coeur d’Alene, Moscow, Pocatello, and Twin Falls. The locations and times will be emailed separately upon registration.
Learn more at the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Summit website.