Inclusion and Belonging Start With Celebrating Diversity

Celebrating diversity in our community means embracing the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and talents that make us unique. From vibrant festivals showcasing diverse cuisines and music to workshops exploring different cultural practices, every event is a chance to learn and connect. By highlighting and honoring our differences, we create a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone feels valued and inspired. Let's come together and celebrate what makes each of us special!

We invite you to participate in Unity in YOUR Community by sharing cultural insights, stories, and photos of all that makes up the diversity of the place you call home.

Unity in the Community was conceived in the late 90's by local community leaders and activists who recognized the need for a platform that could bring together Spokane’s diverse and underrepresented populations to celebrate cultural differences, and promote understanding and inclusivity.

The event has been supported and organized by various local organizations, including the Black Lens News, AHANA (African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American) Business and Professional Association, and other community groups dedicated to promoting diversity and equity in Spokane.

Over the years, the event grew in size attracting more sponsors, participants and community organizations. It grew to include a wide variety of activities including educational booths and cultural performances.

The first ever Unity in the Community event was held in 1995 & started as a small gathering at Liberty Park!

Unity in the Community has become a significant event in Spokane, drawing thousands of attendees each year, serving as a vital platform for celebrating the city’s diversity, fostering dialogue, and addressing issues related to social justice and community cohesion.

Today, "Unity in the Community" continues to thrive as an annual event, usually held in Riverfront Park. It remains a testament to Spokane’s commitment to embracing and celebrating its multicultural identity.

YOUR COMMUNITY PASSPORT

DIVERSITY IS THE ONE TRUE THING WE ALL HAVE IN COMMON, CELEBRATE IT EVERY DAY.

We regularly profile business leaders in a leadership Q&A feature, and we like those we feature to reflect all sectors in our community. 

Here is one we did recently with Reza Kaleel, CEO of Kadlec / Providence

Submitted by:

Kristina Lord, Tri-Cities Journal of Business

Hot Mess Burgers & Fries Owner Blazes a Trail

Submitted by:

Sara Schilling, Tri-Cities Journal of Business

Black-owned Business owner Discusses entrepreneurial journey in Missoula

Submitted by:

Alaina Margo, NonStop Local

Dia de los Muertos - Family & Culture + 10 facts about Dia de los Muertos

Submitted by:

Jessi Everhardt, Cowles Company

Prison program with Tri-City connection helps inmates transform

Submitted by:

Nathan Finke, Tri-Cities Are Journal of Business

Kennewick newcomers learn how to "do America"

Submitted by:

Rachel Visick, Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business

Jesse Tinsley, photographer at The Spokesman-Review, plays ukulele as he helps process passports at the Hawai'i booth at Unity in the Community event in Riverfront Park. Booth organizer Kevin Wong, at left, and several volunteers stamped passports and talked about the history of Hawai'i as a sovereign nation and the 50th state of the United States. Photo by Margo Dreis.

Submitted by:

Jesse Tinsley, The Spokesman-Review

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