Diversity group drops Tri-Cities event over ‘threats to safety, identity, well-being'
The souring climate around diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, has forced a Tri-Cities group to halt an annual event labeled a 'critical community cornerstone.'
But Naima Chambers, founder and CEO of the Tri-Cities Diversity and Inclusion Council, promises the Celebration of Community, Culture and Diversity event will eventually return in full force.
'While this pause is necessary, it is not a step back — it's a strategic step forward,' she said in an email to supporters obtained by the Tri-City Herald. 'We plan to bring this celebration back in 2026, stronger and more impactful than ever.'
Chambers could not be reached Friday afternoon about the decision.
The Diversity and Inclusion Council is a local nonprofit dedicated to 'fostering a unified community, embracing cultures, and celebrating diversity through education, advocacy and the promotion of cultural competence and compassion.'
Incorporated in 2019, the organization works to uplift the diverse voices of the region and create a climate where all community members feel valued and respected. It has held regular events, paid for student scholarships and collaborated to hold training on workplace diversity and conflict resolution.
The group planned to hold its sixth-annual Celebration of Community, Culture and Diversity event this September.
The family-friendly event last year at Howard Amon Par reportedly drew thousands of attendees, artists, musicians, food trucks, vendors and community leaders in an effort to 'uplift cultural pride, share diverse traditions and foster joy, healing and a sense of belonging in the Tri-Cities,' Chambers wrote.
The decision to cancel this year's event was not made lightly.
'The growing climate of anti-DEI, anti-immigrant, and anti-nonprofit sentiment has created real and painful challenges. It has impacted our funding, strained our staffing and volunteer capacity, and reminded us of our responsibility to protect the safety and dignity of the communities we serve,' Chambers said.
'Many of our community members are navigating threats to their safety, identity, and well-being. We refuse to compromise your trust or your safety by hosting an event we cannot fully support with the care and resources it deserves,' she continued.
Chambers says in order to create a better event next year, they're inviting Tri-Cities residents to start planning early by 'laying the groundwork for meaningful partnerships, pursuing aligned funding opportunities and building the infrastructure this event deserves.'
'We're inviting funders and partners to join us in shaping the next chapter — one rooted in purpose, cultural pride and the vibrant diversity of the Tri-Cities region,' she wrote.
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