DEI

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Team

Cultivating an intentional sanctuary where every voice is revered, systemic equity is championed, and divine wholeness is celebrated across our community.

Meets 2nd Sundays
Meets 2nd Sundays
Community Directory
Community Directory 
Our Work

Learning, Listening, and Taking Action Together

Our initiatives center around continuous learning, genuine dialogue, and supportive engagement with community partners throughout Greater Kalamazoo.

  • Create Space for Conversation

    We encourage open, thoughtful conversations about identity, culture, equity, inclusion, and the experiences that shape our community.

  • Learn & Grow

    We share opportunities to learn about social justice, diversity, and the challenges faced by communities in Kalamazoo and beyond.

  • Build Community

    We work to create stronger connections among people with different backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences.

  • Connect With the Wider Community

    We highlight local organizations and initiatives working toward greater equity, justice, inclusion, and community well-being.

Open to All Members & Friends

Team Purpose & Scope

“The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Team identifies and shares opportunities to increase awareness of DEI objectives, suggests programs and policies to ensure a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for our members and staff, and serves as a clearinghouse for information, resources, and activities in our community and the greater Kalamazoo Area.”

Community Network

Community Resources focused on supporting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Local organizations, advocacy coalitions, educational initiatives, and mental health resources advancing justice, equity, and human dignity across the greater Kalamazoo area.

1ONEplace@ Kalamazoo Public Library

Supporting non-profit management, capacity building, and board governance.

NAACP: Metropolitan Kalamazoo Branch

Promoting racial equality, civic engagement, and justice.

SHARE: Society for History and Racial Equity

Preserving African American history and facilitating racial healing conversations.

ERACCE: Eliminating Racism & Creating/Celebrating Equity

Training, systemic racial equity assessments, and workshops.

HOPE: Helping Other People Exceed Through Navigation

Community navigation and empowering underserved individuals.

BIPOC Therapists Resource

Comprehensive directory of BIPOC mental health professionals and counseling services (counselingpsychology.org).

Truth & Titus Collective

Supporting non-profit management, capacity building, and board governance.

OutFront Kalamazoo

Creating a just, inclusive, and supportive community for LGBTQ+ individuals and families.

El Concilio

Empowering the Hispanic community through educational and community services.

AORTA: Anti-Oppression Resource & Training Alliance

Cooperative facilitating systemic change and capacity building.

Racial Equity Tools

Curated research, tools, and curricula for racial equity practitioners.

Northside Ministerial Alliance

Faith-based community coalition addressing community empowerment and advocacy.

Black Arts Council

Cultivating, presenting, and celebrating Black artistic expression and cultural heritage.

Read & Write Kalamazoo

Fostering youth expression, story creation, and literacy.

Arcus Center for Social Justice & Leadership

Fostering social justice leadership and human rights education at Kalamazoo College.

ISAAC: Interfaith Strategy for Advocacy & Action in the Community

Building cross-congregational power for systemic community change.

Justice at Work

Legal advocacy and workplace rights for vulnerable workers.

YWCA Kalamazoo Domestic Assault Program

Emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis support, and violence intervention services.

Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes

Nourishing families and promoting food security across Kalamazoo County.

Gryphon Place (2-1-1 / 9-8-8)

Crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and 24/7 health and human services navigation.

Kalamazoo Drop-In Child Care Center

Free, licensed, drop-in childcare supporting working parents and caregivers.

Be Part of the Work

There Is a Place for Your Voice

Whether you want to join a conversation, learn more about DEI, connect with local organizations, or contribute your time and perspective, there are many ways to participate. Everyone is welcome to take part in creating a community rooted in dignity, respect, and belonging.

  • Join Monthly Dialogue

    Participate in our monthly 2nd Sunday gatherings to listen, reflect, and share insights.

  • Recommend a Resource

    Suggest local grassroots organizations, therapists, or community projects for our network.

  • Co-Host Reflection

    Help curate educational materials, book readings, or guest speakers for congregation awareness.

  • Community Outreach

    Collaborate with interfaith coalitions and partner organizations throughout Kalamazoo County.

Everyone Has a Place Here

We are continuing to learn, listen, and grow together. Join us as we build a community where every person is welcomed, valued, and encouraged to belong.

Join Us at Next Gathering
Join Us at Next Gathering
Get in Touch with the DEI Team
Get in Touch with the DEI Team