Our Inclusive Community
The people of Grand Rapids reflect the full range of human experience – in who they are, where they come from, what they look like, how they worship and so much more. All of them have contributed their own unique colors and brushstrokes to the canvas of Grand Rapids, creating a rich, vibrant community that emphasizes collaboration while honoring diversity.
However, we as a community recognize that we can and should do more to make all of our citizens feel equally included. The Office of Equity and Engagement for the city of Grand Rapids is dedicated to promoting community, workforce and supplier diversity to help ensure that everyone gets to participate in the area’s economic success and quality of life. Likewise, Kent County is committed to advancing a culture that demonstrates Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Statement
Experience Grand Rapids is committed to ensuring that our mission assists Grand Rapids/Kent County become a more sustainable, diverse, equitable, accessible, and inclusive destination.
Every effort will be made to ensure all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, visible and invisible disabilities, class, cultural and religious beliefs are welcomed throughout our community.
For us, inclusion is not an endpoint, but rather a continuing effort to make both residents and visitors feel more at home, more empowered and more delighted with their time here. We’ll highlight some of our – and the region’s – progress on this page.
Before we can look forward, we must take a look back at the people who helped shape West Michigan, from the first French fur traders to the latest influx of refugees escaping wars and others seeking a better standard living. Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum to view the Newcomers: the People of this Place exhibit.
