News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners
Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Deputy Director
Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Paul M. Drake, Commissioner Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2022
Somerset County Seeks Community Organizations to Participate in October Diversity Festival
Participants Will Have an Opportunity to Promote Their Diversity-Related Mission
SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Somerset County Diversity Festival committee is seeking community organizations to participate in the 2022 Diversity Festival, which will occur Sunday, Oct. 16, from 12 to 4 p.m., on Grove and Main Streets in Somerville. The free, public, outdoor event will feature activities, entertainers, and food that reflect the county’s diverse population.
The Somerset County Board of Commissioners invites community organizations to be part of the experience by having a presence at the festival. The Commissioners know organizations are a vital part of the county’s mission, which is to learn from and educate communities about the county’s unique cultures and lifestyles, so people gain a better understanding and greater acceptance of diversity.
Community Organizations Promoting Diversity Are Wanted
The Diversity Festival Committee seeks organizations with a mission to provide resources and/or advocate, represent, and educate communities about one of the many diverse groups of people vibrantly connected in Somerset County.
Interested groups should have displays and materials that showcase how their organization is promoting diversity and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, those who have access barriers or have other challenges making it difficult for them to engage in community services. Organizations with materials advocating for equity and inclusion are also appropriate and welcome at this event.
Guidelines
The Diversity Festival Committee will screen organizations and give preference to those with goals and objectives that align with Somerset County’s mission and the goals of the festival.
Participants must provide a display table, should arrive at 11:30 a.m., and stay until 4 p.m. At least a week before the event, participants must sign indemnity forms and provide proof of insurance.
There is no charge to participate in the festival. Exhibitors will be stationed on Grove Street, Veterans Plaza, and the courthouse lawn. Space is limited so organizations should register as soon as possible. Organizations cannot sell services or goods as part of their displays. Attendance is voluntary, and exhibitors will not be paid.
For more information about participating in the Diversity Festival, contact Kim Cowart at 908-541-5756 or email cowart@co.somerset.nj.us.
History of the Somerset County Diversity Festival
The first annual Diversity Festival was launched in 2019 to honor Global Diversity Awareness Month and to embrace and celebrate diversity. The festival was also part of a broader Somerset County government initiative to foster greater awareness about diversity among employees and residents and show support for multi-cultural communities. The festival attracted more than 500 attendees.
Diversity in Somerset County
The Somerset County Board of Commissioners embraces and commits to a philosophy of inclusion that respects the cultural norms of the citizens and taxpayers, current employees, and the future of Somerset County Government as a place of employment. The commitment to embrace diversity is crucial to providing county services and making vibrant connections.
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