Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Newsletter

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce's monthly diversity, equity, and inclusion newsletter provides updates, programming, resources, and professional development opportunities to empower the business community to contribute to an equitable and inclusive region.

August 2024 Edition

The LRCC DEI Series is powered by:

Important August Observations & Celebrations

Month-Long Observances

National Civility Month

Important DE&I Calendar Dates

August 7 – Purple Heart Day
August 9 – International Day of the World’s Indigenous People
August 13 – Left-Handers Day
August 17 – Marcus Garvey Day (Jamaican)

August 19 – World Humanitarian Day
August 21 – Senior Citizens Day
August 26 – Women’s Equality Day
August 26 – Krishna Janmashtami (Hindu)

Important Important September Observations & Celebrations

Month-Long Observances

Hispanic Heritage Month
National Guide Dog Month
Suicide Prevention Month

Important DE&I Calendar Dates

September 5 – International Day of Charity
September 10 – World Suicide Prevention Day
September 10 – Grandparents’ Day
September 11 – Patriot Day (U.S.A.)
September 15 – International Day of Democracy
September 16 – Mexican Independence Day
September 18 – International Equal Pay Day

September 21 – International Day of Peace
September 21 – World Gratitude Day
September 22 – American Business Women’s Day
September 26 – HR Appreciation Day
September 27 – National Native American Day
September 30 – National Day for Truth & Reconciliation (Canada)

517 Hispanic Heritage Weekend

Join Ourspace in Lansing’s Downtown Corridor from September 19 to 22 for a vibrant celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage! Ourspace Foundation is thrilled to bring back the Annual 517 Hispanic Heritage Weekend, honoring the rich traditions and contributions of the Hispanic community.

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Lansing Regional Sister Cities 30th Anniversary - A Celebration of Global Diversity

The Lansing Regional Sister Cities Commission is pleased to announce its 30th Anniversary Celebration of Global Diversity during an evening gala on September 14, 2024, at the Lansing Center in Downtown Lansing.

Over the past three decades, Lansing Regional Sister Cities Commission’s relationships around the world have served as pillars of friendship, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding. Together, Lansing Regional Sister Cities Commission has embarked on numerous ventures, exchanged ideas, and celebrated each other’s diverse cultures and traditions. The Lansing Regional Sister Cities Commission's 30th Anniversary will be an evening filled with music, dance, delicious cuisine, awards and heartfelt conversations.

Tickets

Upcoming Events & Programs

DEI Series: Celebrating Brain Diversity - Fostering an Inclusive Workplace for Neurodivergent Professionals

Join MSUFCU’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Manager, Taylor Moberg (she/her), on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., for an enlightening session where we will delve into proactive strategies aimed at fostering an inclusive work environment for neurodiversity. From evaluating hiring practices to accommodating needs, we will explore actionable steps to not only welcome but celebrate the unique skills and experiences of neurodivergent individuals.

DEI Series: From Bystander to Upstander - When and How to Respond to Incidents of Bias

Have you ever overheard comments or observed behavior that you considered inappropriate in your organization? Did you respond, if so what and how? If not, why not? Most people avoid responding in such situations because they do not know how to respond. Led by Dr. Vernon A. Woodley, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Specialist, Lansing Board of Water & Light, this session on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. discusses the bystander effect and provides tips on how we can go from being mere bystanders to active bystanders or upstanders.

Join Leadership Lansing & Lead the Region Forward

Leadership Lansing is now accepting applications for its 10th cohort! This talent initiative runs annually from October through May and is designed to develop a new generation of community leaders in the Lansing region. Participants will receive extensive training to enhance their leadership skills, which will benefit their performance inside their organizations and the community.

Apply Today!

ATHENA WIN

Evening of Empowerment

ATHENA WIN’s Annual Evening of Empowerment will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 26, at the Crowne Plaza Lansing and feature Keynote Speakers Tamira Chapman, President and CEO of Storehouse, the 8th fastest-growing woman-owned enterprise globally in 2022, and Julie Pingston, 2023 ATHENA Lansing Award Recipient and President & CEO of Choose Lansing. Sponsorships and tickets are now available.

Sponsorships & Tickets

Nominations for the 2024 ATHENA Leadership Award Close on Friday, Aug. 9

The ATHENA Leadership Award honors individuals who strive towards the highest levels of professional accomplishment, excel in their chosen field, have devoted time and energy to their community, and pave paths for other women to follow.

Nomination Form

What We're Reading

Visit the LRCC DEI website for the latest news, important updates and resources.