Garden State Equality is set to host its annual symposium titled Equality at Work 2025, focusing on fostering inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility within the workplace. Scheduled for April 11 at Bell Works in Holmdel, the event aims to gather various professionals and stakeholders to discuss the importance of creating inclusive environments in companies and organizations.
Brielle Winslow-Majette, Deputy Director at Garden State Equality, emphasized the necessity of addressing diversity and inclusion issues. "In light of the attacks on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, it is more important than ever for our New Jersey companies and organizations to take the first step towards equity," she said. "That starts with learning what an inclusive workplace looks like."
The symposium will feature four workshop tracks: Corporate, Healthcare, Education, and Young Professionals. Justine Evyn Saliski, Garden State Equality’s Senior Director of Education & Youth Development, highlighted the importance of incorporating an educational track, stating, "The workplace covers a multitude of locations, and that includes the classroom and school building."
Layla Orlando, Director of Health Equity & Wellness at Garden State Equality, mentioned the introduction of a health and wellness track. "Participants in this track will learn about various aspects of gender-affirming care, best practices for ensuring LGBTQ+ people feel welcome in healthcare settings, and more," she explained.
Brielle Winslow-Majette pointed out the advantage of having specific tracks, as they provide participants with a more focused experience, along with a special session titled "Know Your Civil Rights" presented by the New Jersey Department on Civil Rights.
The symposium will feature a keynote panel of Black and Brown queer women who are leaders in their fields, including Dominique Jackson, Chisa Hutchinson, Shanesia Davis, Suffiyah Webb, Marta Esquilin, and Shenelle Brooks. These panelists are noted for their work in advancing inclusion across various industries.
In addition to the workshops, attendees will have the chance to explore the Wellness Space for relaxation and participate in an after-symposium event with drinks, music, and classic games. Sponsors for Equality at Work include several prominent organizations such as Fiserv, Ingredion, Hackensack Meridian Health, and Lyft.
