Local Community Groups with Diversity-Related Missions Sought for Somerset County Diversity Festival in Oct.

SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Somerset County Board of Commissioners invites community groups and organizations with diversity-related missions to participate in the 2022 Diversity Festival on Sunday, Oct. 16, from 12 to 4 p.m., in Somerville on Grove and Main Streets. The free, public, outdoor event for people of all ages will feature activities, entertainers, food and cultures that reflect the county’s diverse population. This venue is ideal for community groups to network, promote their mission and solicit new members. There is no charge to participate in the festival.

One purpose of the festival is to educate communities about the county’s unique cultures and lifestyles, so residents can gain a better understanding and greater acceptance of others’ differences. Community groups and non-profits’ participation at the fair will help the county achieve this goal.

We Want You

The Diversity Committee is seeking community organizations/groups 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.

Ideal candidates should have displays and materials showcasing how their organization is promoting:

• Diversity
• Equity and inclusion
• Opportunities for underrepresented communities having access barriers or other challenges making it difficult for them to engage in community services

Guidelines

The Diversity Festival Committee will screen organizations and give preference to those with goals and objectives that align with the mission and goals of Somerset County and the Diversity Festival. Please note:

• Exhibitors should provide a display table
• Attendance is voluntary, and exhibitors will not receive payment
• Arrival time is 11:30 a.m., and exhibitors should not leave until 4 p.m.
• Indemnity forms must be signed, and proof of insurance should be submitted at least a week before the event
• Community groups cannot sell services or goods as part of their displays

Exhibitors will display on Grove Street, Veterans Plaza and the courthouse lawn. Space is limited, so organizations should register as soon as possible.

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 Board of Commissioners believes the commitment to embracing diversity is crucial to providing county services and making vibrant connections.

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