IRE to host hybrid event in October focused on equity issues

IRE is returning to in-person events with a symposium in Baltimore in October focusing on diversity, belonging, equity and inclusion (DBEI) issues for newsrooms.

The hybrid event will be IRE’s first in-person training event since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in March 2020. It also will be IRE’s first-ever event focused solely on diversity and equity issues. 

The DBEI symposium will be Oct. 21-23, 2021, with limited in-person attendance. Members also will have the option to join virtually from anywhere in the world. 

“We are really looking forward to visiting in person again, while at the same time maintaining the advantages of a virtual platform for those who can’t be with us face to face,” said IRE Executive Director Diana Fuentes.

The symposium will focus on helping journalists with newsroom diversity issues and with investigating inequality in their communities, from education and labor to housing and criminal justice.

IRE is seeking input on specific topics members would like to learn about or speakers they’d like to see at the symposium. Please fill out this form with any ideas by Sunday, Aug. 1.

“Our members have said they want to focus on better reflecting the communities they serve, and we want to help them reach that goal,” Fuentes said. “Let us know what specific subjects you’d like us to address.”

Other details, including registration cost, hotel information, will be announced in the coming weeks. Sign up for our DBEI Symposium email updates list here. In-person attendance will be limited due to space but, of course, there are no limits on virtual attendance!