Destination Ann Arbor announced today it is supporting the Ann Arbor Ypsilanti Regional Chamber in its efforts to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) outcomes throughout Washtenaw County’s business community. A2Y Chamber has created an educational series designed to help local businesses establish and implement a DEI vision.  

‘DEI Essentials: Building a DEI Vision,’ the second event in the series, is scheduled for October 6. The interactive learning opportunity will include a discussion of personality differences and how they impact human interaction, with participants gaining greater insight into their own leadership styles. It will be led by professional speaker and coach Dr. Sabrina Jackson, Co-Owner of Essential Colors. Additional series topics include Diversity at Work, Advancing DEI in Your Culture, and Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Work Culture. Upcoming speakers include Bridget Hurd, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan; Alfredo Hernandez, Michigan Department of Civil Rights; Ken Harris, National Urban League; and Alex Gossage, Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living. 

“Recognizing and celebrating what’s great about the Washtenaw County community is what we already do, every day,” said Sarah Miller, Interim President & CEO, Destination Ann Arbor. “Together with the A2Y Chamber we are challenging ourselves and our community to do this with more intention, through a wider and more inclusive lens of diversity.” 

A series of business roundtable discussions featuring local BIPOC business leaders is also planned to begin this fall. The series is designed to help identify and acknowledge gaps in diversity and inclusivity in the region, with participants sharing their experiences and perspective on where inequalities exist, what impacts are being felt, and what BIPOC businesses require from the community to ensure success. Information gathered from the roundtable discussions will be used to identify and create opportunities for greater equity and inclusion in the County. 

“In Washtenaw County, we believe there is an interconnectivity in recognizing yourself, your culture, and your values in the community around you and feeling welcomed, included, and appreciated. That is why diversity, equity, and inclusivity matter for Washtenaw County,” said Sarah.  

“We are proud to work with Destination Ann Arbor and to provide hands-on learning and engagement opportunities for our business community,” said Diane Keller, A2Y Chamber President & CEO. “Together we can identify gaps and opportunities for improvement as we work to become a more welcoming place to live and visit.”  

To register to attend these events and learn more about the program, please click here.  

###

Destination Ann Arbor is a 501 (c)6 not-for-profit organization whose mission is to provide sustainable tourism to elevate economic vitality and quality of life.