DEI Matters - June 6, 2025

An Exploration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion focused on DEI in Principle, in Pastoral Practice, and in Public Practice

Please join us for an in-person, robust day of learning about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)!

Led by Dr. A. Brian Leander, author of the newly released Diversity Oriented Churches, this convening will build on the research and best practices of the last twenty years. Myths will be dispelled, understanding broadened, and hope for a truly reconciling church kindled. By the end of the day, participants will have fresh perspectives and new approaches to take into their professional, relational, and spiritual lives.

Schedule of Events (In-person only)

9:00 Check-in and Refreshments

9:30 Opening – Bishop Yvette Flunder

9:45 Keynote Address – A. Brian Leander

10:15-11:30 – Panel #1: DEI in Principle

A discussion of theological and missiological principles of diversity, equity and inclusion.

11:30-12:00 Lunch Break (provided)

12:00-1:00 – Panel #2: DEI in Pastoral Leadership

Pastors talking about what it looks like to lead a diversity-oriented church. How does it work and is it effective for church growth/discipleship?

(Note: this panel only will be featured online as part of BST’s First Friday Lunch & Learn series.)

1:00-1:30 Talkback—Facilitated table discussion with guests

1:30-2:00 Break

2:00-3:30 – Panel #3: DEI in Public

Practitioners in Nonprofit, Business and Public Sector discuss how diversity, equity and inclusion apply to mission and organizational effectiveness.

3:30-3:45 Closing remarks

Panels and Participants

DEI in Principle (Dr. Hanna Kang, Dr. Mimi Harvey, Rev. Sam Kim, Bishop Yvette Flunder)

DEI in Pastoral Practice (Dr. Garfield Harvey, Pastor Gabe Garcia, Rev. Dr. Ruth Meyers, Rev. Katie Choy-Wong)

DEI in Public Practice (Mr. Chuck Shelton, Ms. Kaveena Singh, Dr. Jim Brenneman)

Convening Sponsors

DEI Matters is a FREE event for interested professionals, but we also welcome sponsors. For a minimum donation of $100, your church/organization can help make this day possible. All sponsors will be featured here and on promo materials generated for the event, and the donation can be made here.