March 29th Virtual Family Reunion Planners Workshop Sponsor:

April is Celebrate Diversity Month. It was initiated in 2004 to recognize and honor the diversity surrounding all of us be it gender, race, ethnicity, faith and other factors—while honoring the common essence of humanity. By celebrating differences and similarities during this month, the hope is that people will gain a deeper understanding of each other and begin treating one another better. Some folks are trying to end diversity. Diversity can foster a more inclusive and respectful environment and that's something to be applauded, commended and recommended—not stifled and ignored. Let's welcome it. Favor it. And embrace it.

Our lives and families are full of diversity. That’s one of the things that challenges our reunion planning. For instance how do you plan fun activities for all generations without leaving someone out? How do you plan food for vegans, vegetarians, differing ethnic populations and the rest of the folks within the family? How do you plan events for drinkers and non-drinkers, party people and church goers, and the mix of religious denominations within your family?

One reunion family turned their Saturday dinner banquet into a “Saints & Sinners” event. The first two hours were non-alcoholic and calm enough musically for everyone to enjoy. The last two hours were turned-up for the party people. And everyone liked it so much it became an annual event for their reunion.

Use this month to think about the diversity within your family, and creatively plan reunion events where everyone feels recognized, respected, wanted and loved.