The Real Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion In Action Luncheon Set for November 18, 2025
With so many companies and organizations rolling back Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) efforts at the suggestion of the current administration, the Urban League of Northwest Indiana is taking the high road through educating the public and ramping up its work to keep DEI activities at the forefront.
Today, the organization announced its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion In Action Luncheon set for Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Avalon Manor in Merrillville from 11:30 a.m. - 1: 30 p.m.
Urban League of NWI President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Allen-McCloud says that the elimination of DEI initiatives could potentially dismantle one of the major pillars of the Urban League movement.
“One of the main reasons that the Urban League was created was to introduce opportunities and resources to the underserved and unincluded,” said Allen-McCloud. “Our agency prides itself on support of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, conducting training and raising awareness of DEI-related issues with the ultimate goal of celebrating and respecting our differences while leveling the playing field for all.”
Although the luncheon has been in existence for several years—historically titled the “Urban League of Northwest Indiana’s Diversity and Inclusion Awards Luncheon”—organizers are announcing the event months in advance to emphasize its relevance and the need to keep Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion-related programs and activities alive in Lake, Porter, and LaPorte Counties. The title was changed this year to set straight the growing disconnect that has resulted from increased negativity and misconceptions being spread on various platforms.
“We have an obligation to educate and inform the public about the value and benefits of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in our workplaces, homes and society as a whole,” said Dr. Linda Gunn, DEI Consultant for the Urban League. “We want people to lose the negative connotation when they hear the term and replace it with an understanding of the advantages it brings to our economic environment and community.”
“Over the past few decades, the Urban League of Northwest Indiana has made a profound impact in the lives of Northwest Indiana residents. We’ve implemented programs to support the elderly and underserved, empower local entrepreneurs, and give underprivileged students an equal chance to achieve success,” said Dr. Danny Lackey, retired Merrillville Schools administrator and member of the Urban League’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee. “Today, that progress is being clouded by misinformation. This year’s luncheon is an opportunity to educate our neighbors, strengthen our community, and ensure we continue moving forward — building a future rooted in opportunity, equity, and hope.”
In addition to the title change, the luncheon will soon be featured in a “Break the Disconnect: Myth vs. Fact” themed marketing campaign, including flyers and social media content.
Some of the language used in the campaign states, “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion make us stronger, more adaptable, and better equipped to face the challenges of our environment. These are some of the ways in which the Urban League of NWI helps residents to meet these challenges, by providing free tax prep for seniors, scholarships for first-generation college students, empowerment for leaders to be inclusive, entrepreneur support in underserved communities, and much, much more!” The promotions go on to candidly say, “This isn’t politics. This is progress. Let’s redefine the narrative.”
“We see where we’re headed, and the only way we can divert this direction is to come together and provide positive, factual information. We can only achieve that with the help of our communities and community partners,” said Allen-McCloud. “I ask everyone to mark their calendars and be deliberate, not only about participating in the luncheon, but most importantly, about keeping the real meaning of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion alive and well in the communities where we live, work, and thrive.”
For more information about Urban League of Northwest Indiana and The Real Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion In Action Luncheon, call 219- 887-9621 or visit www.urbanleagueofnwi.org.
