Fostering Inclusivity: A Focus on Diversity, Equality, and Belonging

The importance of diversity, equality and inclusion continues to be a central theme in our global conversations. While we have made strides in creating more inclusive environments, there is always room for growth and improvements. A truly thriving society depends on recognizing and celebrating our differences. Each month will provide a small sampling of events intended to help focus our attention throughout the year as we strive to expand our knowledge and deepen our appreciation for the characteristics, backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions and struggles of others. We hope it will: Foster Inclusivity; Raise Awareness; and Encourage Engagement.

September Focus

A group of diverse individuals stands in a circle, holding hands and embracing, in a field at sunset. Above them, numerous balloons float into the sky, some bearing messages like "YOU ARE NOT ALONE" and "HOPE LIVES." In the foreground, a banner reads "WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY SEPTEMBER 10."

9/10 World Suicide Prevention Day

Call or text 988 suicide and crisis lifeline day or night 365 days of the year. NJ Mental Health Cares

A solemn scene at night, featuring the Tribute in Light, two powerful beams of light shining upwards where the Twin Towers once stood. In the foreground, a diverse group of people stands holding a banner that reads "9/11 PATRIOT DAY SEPTEMBER 11 - WE WILL NEVER FORGET." The surrounding city skyline is visible under a twilight sky.

9/11 Patriot Day

A family, including grandparents, parents, and a child, gathered around a beautifully set dining table for a Rosh Hashanah meal. They are smiling and interacting, with traditional foods like challah, apples, and honey on the table. A shofar is visible in the background, and candles add to the warm, festive atmosphere. A banner at the bottom reads "ROSH HASHANAH 9/23-9/24."

9/23-9/24 Rosh Hashanah

A vibrant street scene filled with people celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month. Colorful papel picado banners are strung across the street, and market stalls line the sides. In the center, a couple dances joyfully while musicians play guitars. Others are clapping and enjoying the festivities. A banner at the bottom reads "CELEBRATING HISPANIC & LATINX HERITAGE MONTH SEPTEMBER 15 - OCTOBER 15 LA CULTURA, LA GENTE, EL FUTURO."

9/15-10/15 Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

More Than Just Shoes: A Walk Through Equality, Equity, and True Belonging

A top-down view of a pair of orange and black Saucony running shoes with white soles, set against a blue textured background.

Equality is everyone getting a pair of shoes.

An overhead shot of many open shoeboxes arranged in a grid, each filled with a different pair of vintage-style shoes.

Diversity is everyone getting a different type of shoe.

A close-up from behind of a person wearing brown hiking boots and grey wool socks, walking on a rocky, dirt trail.

Equity is everyone getting a pair of shoes that fits.

A low-angle, side view of a person's feet wearing two different colorful Skechers sneakers, one pink and purple, and the other blue and white, while standing on a concrete curb.

Acceptance is understanding we all wear different kinds of shoes.

A photo from behind of a pair of shiny, red patent leather high-heeled pumps, set against a plain white background.

Belonging is wearing the shoes you want without fear of judgement.