Next week in New York City is cable’s Diversity Week, an annual event where the cable industry comes together to highlight and honor the importance of diversity. It is a busy week, filled with activities sponsored by cable’s diversity organizations: Women in Cable Telecommunications (WICT), the National Association for Multi-Ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC) and the Walter Kaitz Foundation. Most importantly, the week is the time when the industry renews its commitment to strengthening diversity – throughout its ranks, in its content, and in the many ways it serves consumers.
Less than a week from today – on Wednesday September 12 – is the 29th Annual Walter Kaitz Fundraising Dinner, an annual event that typically raises more than $1 million to fund diversity-oriented programs and initiatives for cable’s diversity organizations. Joining this year’s dinner is a special guest – the talented and funny actress, host, and author, Sherri Shepherd – who will host this year’s dinner courtesy of Aspire & gmc TV.
At the dinner, the Kaitz Foundation will honor two organizations that are catalysts for diversity: Cox Communications as the Diversity Champion, and the Healthy MEdia Commission for Positive Images of Women and Girls as the Diversity Advocate.
The WICT Leadership Conference kicks off on Monday, September 10, with opening remarks from Chelsea Clinton, and a fireside chat with NCTA’s Michael Powell. Other highlights of the WICT conference are the WICT Touchstones Luncheon, honoring outstanding women who are paving the way for the development of others in the industry, and numerous leadership and professional development panels to help participants learn how to enhance their careers and lives.
The 26th Annual NAMIC Conference is packed with speakers, presentations, panels, learning sessions and networking opportunities. During the conference is the CableFAX Most Influential Minorities in Cable Breakfast honoring exceptional cable executives, and including a conversation with NCTA’s Michael Powell. Happening all day Tuesday – and open to the public – is the NAMIC Technology Expo & Diversity Career Fair which will allow folks to explore career opportunities in the media and entertainment industries, and at the same time enjoy a showcase of industry products and services.