Unwavering Commitment: Event Garde’s DEIB Journey & Vision for the Future

Photo courtesy of iStock/solidcolours

On his first day in office, President Trump initiated a series of executive actions, including the closure of federal diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) offices, signaling a departure from previous commitments to fostering equity and inclusion within government agencies. This stark move was part of broader efforts to limit DEIA initiatives across the federal landscape, directly impacting employees tasked with advancing equity. While the political landscape may fluctuate, and it remains to be seen the effects this directive may have on our clients, organizations like Event Garde remain steadfast in our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). For us, this work transcends politics—it’s about people and principles.

A Legacy of Action

Event Garde’s commitment to DEIB is not new. In 2020, amid nationwide protests against systemic racism and anti-Black violence, we issued a public statement affirming our dedication to racial equity. In this statement, we made several clear commitments:

1. Create Space for Conversations: Facilitate difficult yet meaningful discussions about systemic inequities.

2. Challenge Inequities: Actively address and disrupt discriminatory practices within our spheres of influence.

3. Educate Ourselves and Others: Engage in continuous learning to better understand and dismantle systemic racism.

4. Amplify Marginalized Voices: Use our platform to elevate underrepresented perspectives.

These commitments are more than words; they are a foundation for our ongoing efforts to foster equity in all that we do.

Achieving Certified LGBT Business Enterprise Status

In 2023, Event Garde’s dedication to inclusion reached another milestone when we became a Certified LGBT Business Enterprise (Certified LGBTBE) through the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). This certification reflects our identity as a diverse supplier and strengthens our ability to partner with organizations that value supplier diversity. Joining the ranks of over 2,000 certified LGBTBEs, we’re proud to stand among businesses championing inclusion at every level.

Walking the Talk: DEIB in Action

Statements and credentials are important, but real impact requires action. At Event Garde, we’re doing the work every day. Here are some tangible ways we’re living our DEIB commitments:

• Systemic Racism Training: Co-teaching courses with trusted partners to help deepen participants’ understanding of systemic racism.
• Internal Education: Hosting team lunch-and-learns on topics like empathy, accessibility, and white institutional values.
• Client Collaboration: Partnering with clients, including government entities, to advance their DEIB initiatives. Just this month, we facilitated a participatory session for a Texas association to set a foundational understanding of DEIB.
• Community Engagement: Facilitating free webinars and Voices & Views roundtables that spark meaningful dialogue on DEIB topics.
• Resource Development: Maintaining a robust DEIB resource page and developing a whitepaper on embedding DEIB into strategic planning, slated for release early this year.
• Intentional Practices: Ensuring accessibility in materials, selecting inclusive imagery, and adopting mindful language choices.
• Accountability: Calling in and addressing behaviors that perpetuate racism, sexism, homophobia, and other forms of oppression.

This work is not about seeking accolades; it’s about creating a culture where everyone feels valued and supported. We acknowledge that this is a journey, not a destination. Growth requires humility, accountability, and continuous learning.

A Safe Space for All

As a Michigan barber I admire recently stated, “It’s never wise to be political as a business, but trans folks still exist at [our barbershop] and any disrespect will not be tolerated.” Similarly, Event Garde’s commitment is unwavering. We welcome everyone into our fold, regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, first language, ability, age, or religious affiliation. Creating an inclusive environment isn’t just good business—it’s the right thing to do. And you can expect opportunities in the coming weeks and months to not only help you do the work, but to open up conversations about what it’s like to be a DEIB practitioner of any kind given the current and rapidly changing landscape. 

Looking Ahead

Our dedication to DEIB is an integral part of who we are and what we do. This year, our annual team retreat scheduled for Feb. 6-7 in Lansing, Michigan, will include:

1. Director Team Meeting: Focusing on regrouping and prioritizing 2025 DEIB initiatives.

2. Team-Wide Session: Addressing white institutional values and the myth of meritocracy.

3. Reflection and Commitment: Encouraging team members to reflect on their 2024 DEIB efforts and set personal and professional goals for 2025.

Additionally, our director team has committed to monthly reviews of our DEIB initiatives, ensuring we maintain focus and momentum throughout the year.

A Collective Effort

We recognize that fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging requires sustained effort and collaboration. Diversity sparks creativity and innovation, and an inclusive work and team culture benefits our clients, team members, and the broader community.

Event Garde is not simply checking boxes or issuing performative statements. We are doing the hard work of building a more equitable and inclusive future. This journey is for us, for our clients, and for the communities we serve. Together, we can make a difference.

We invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you’re looking for resources, seeking a partner to advance your DEIB goals, or simply want to learn more about our initiatives, we’re here. At Event Garde, DEIB isn’t a trend or a political statement. It’s a commitment to humanity and a brighter, more inclusive future for all.