Conference
2021 DLA CONFERENCE (Hybrid)
Uncomfortable Conversations that Ignite Change…
the Dialogues Continue!
November 17-19, 2021
Conference Theme
Diversity Leadership Alliance will continue our important work around systemic racism with our 20th annual conference, “Uncomfortable Conversations that Ignite Change – the Dialogue Continues”. The three-day, hybrid Conference and Diversity Awards is a safe space and place to listen and learn. The 2021 Conference and Diversity Awards will identify, address and eradicate the deep-rooted, insidious nature of racism by harnessing the powerful tool of Education and dialogue. We will dig deeper into the systems of inequities we see in Education, Healthcare, Food Accessibility/Insecurity, Technology and Mental Health. By having these meaningful dialogues, we hope to eliminate some of the racist thoughts, behaviors, and actions within various systems, encourage advocacy and social justice and promote authentic, sustainable diversity, equity, and inclusion practices and programs.
DLA is calling on all advocates, allies and activists to join us with open minds and kind hearts as we stand together for Justice and Equity for All.
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Opening Night & Diversity Awards
20th Anniversary Awards ceremony
Venue: TBD
This opening night event will celebrate and honor our Diversity champions from 2020 and 2021.
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Virtual Workshops
Mayo Clinic – DLA on-site location host
2021 Conference Agenda At-A-Glance
Day One (In-Person)
Wednesday, Nov 17
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Opening Night & Diversity Awards &
20th Anniversary Awards ceremony
Day Two (Virtual)
Thursday, Nov 18
9:00 – 10:00 am
Opening Keynote
10:30 am & 12:30 pm
Workshop #1
10:30 am & 12:30 pm
Workshop #2
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Closing Session – Fireside Chat
Day Three (Virtual)
Friday, Nov 19
9:00 – 10:00 am
Opening Keynote
10:30 am & 12:30 pm
Workshop #1
10:30 am & 12:30 pm
Workshop #2
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Closing Session – Fireside Chat
ASL Interpreting and Captioning Services available at Conference in partnership with 
Our Partners
2020 Change Agents
2020 Partners
Thank you to all of our 2020 Partners who helped make our first ever Virtual Conference a HUGE Success!
Partnership Opportunities
2021 Annual Conference Partnership Levels
CHANGE AGENT $20,000
Partner $10,000
Advocate Partner $5,000
Supporter Partner $3,000
Friend of DLA $1,000 (Unlimited Friendships)
Learn more about DLA Partnerships »
Meet our 2020 Diversity and Inclusion Award Winners
DLA/AZ SHRM 2020 Diversity Leader Award
Eric M. Bailey
Bailey Strategic Innovation Group
DLA/AZ SHRM 2020 Diversity Leader Award
Myoshi Maul
Cox
DLA/AZ SHRM 2020 Youth Inclusion Leader Award
Jackson Asante Whitaker
DLA/AZ SHRM 2020 Inclusive Workplace Award
Coconino County
DLA/AZ SHRM 2020 Inclusive Community Workplace Award
Desert Botanical Gardens
About the Awards
In 2020, DLA celebrated and recognized Arizona individuals, Corporations and Organizations that lead by example, creating an inclusive environment that enhances and strengthens the community. The DLA Diversity and Inclusion Award is a joint award given on behalf of Diversity Leadership Alliance and Arizona SHRM. This prestigious award is given to a Corporation or Organization that recognizes and values Diversity, Equity and Belonging. They create a safe space in an inclusive, collaborative work environment where their employees can be their genuine and authentic selves. In addition to their innovative, internal Diversity programs and initiatives, they also lead the way in terms of their extensive Community outreach efforts and support. DLA also honored individuals who serve as Diversity and Inclusion Leaders in the Community. These passionate individuals demonstrated collaborative leadership and a visible commitment to the work of Diversity and Inclusion. These individuals are bravely forging forward and creating spaces where others can celebrate and be celebrated and they do so selflessly with dignity and humility.