Annual diversity summit held in Tuscaloosa with local business leaders

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WBRC) – As the state of Alabama prepares for big changes related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, business owners and elected leaders in Tuscaloosa gathered for a summit on diversity this week.

The pre-planned event came just weeks after the Alabama State Legislature passed laws banning diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in state institutions and state funding for these efforts.

The Diverse Business Council (DMC) of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama hosted its annual diversity summit at the Tuscaloosa River Market where members and guests packed the venue.

DMC Chairwoman Erica Barnes feels there is still place for diversity when it comes to business and industry.

“Just knowing that anything is possible, especially with our business owners not being in a box is very important as an entrepreneur myself is very important,” Barnes said. “So having the guests come in and having the different people from the legislators on down, elected officials, just having them understand diversity is still important and you can do all things.”

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The diversity summit featured two speakers. One of them was Stacia Robinson, the Director of the Alabama Office of Minority Affairs, which advocates for women and minorities when it comes to health, education, empowerment, and business.

“And so, for the categories of business support, we’re looking to be a place where businesses can actually come to see what’s available. And not only that, try to see that they’re actually included in the opportunities that are out there no matter who they are for.” Robinson said. “The words ‘Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion’ are the trigger points. We won’t use those words. That’s how we’ll address that.”

Robinson said her office is exempt from upcoming diversity, equity, and inclusion rollbacks.

The law goes into effect on October 1.

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