BLAAC to host 2nd annual race relations summit in July

The second annual Monterey County Race Relations Summit is slated for July, bringing together politicians, community leaders and department heads to talk about race and the importance of promoting diversity in workspaces and neighborhoods.

Hosted by the Black Leaders and Allies Collaborative, the summit will be at the Embassy Suites in Seaside this year, on July 12 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The day serves as a chance to have important discussions and as a networking opportunity as many of last year’s guests have businesses of their own or jobs and careers in city sectors.

“While Monterey County is one of the most racially diverse geographical areas in the United States, dramatic economic and health disparities continue to be a barrier to the ideal of a truly equitable community across racial and ethnic lines,” the press release reads.

This year’s speakers and facilitators will include Khuram Hussain, vice president for Equity and Inclusion at Middlebury College in Vermont, Paul Robinson, executive minister for the Evangelical Covenant Church, and Linda McKenzie, CEO for the Global Empathy Training Academy.

BLAAC organizers say this year’s event will also expand upon the first meeting last year, to advance discussions and implement community solutions for racial equity. In addition to presentations and guest speakers, last year’s event hosted small games and exercises amongst the guests to practice getting to know different people of different backgrounds.

BLAAC, founded by Dirrick Williams, serves as a facilitator for dialogue and cooperation amongst Black leaders, anti-racist activists and organizations that want to make a change in Monterey County.

Tickets can be purchased by going to blaac.org/events.