Equality Careers Ribbon Cutting Event
On September 7th, 2023, history was made as three visionary organizations—The Three Rivers Business Alliance, Equality Careers, and RedTree Web Design—joined forces for a groundbreaking event at COhatch Southside Works. This event wasn’t just a ribbon-cutting ceremony; it was a celebration of workplace equality and the launch of Equality Careers, a revolutionary diversity job board designed to connect LGBTQIA+ job seekers with employers committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In this blog post, we’ll recap the highlights of this momentous event that marked a significant step toward fostering inclusivity in the workforce.
A Remarkable Venue: COhatch Southside Works
The setting for this event, COhatch Southside Works, added a special touch to the evening. Nestled in the vibrant Southside Works district, the venue offered a stylish and welcoming backdrop for the celebration. The spacious, modern interior provided the perfect atmosphere for networking, fostering connections, and celebrating diversity.
The venue was decorated with amazing rainbow balloon displays and Equality Career branded décor that created an inclusive and festive ambiance. As attendees mingled and engaged in conversations, the venue served as a symbol of the importance of creating inclusive spaces, both in the workplace and in the community.
Spotlight on Our Amazing Vendors
The team at Equality Careers realizes the importance of supporting small, local, and diverse businesses. The vendors that carefully selected to support this event and include:
Wild Onyinz Catering: We deliberately chose Wild Onyinz, a local catering company, because we believe in supporting our community. They delighted our guests with a delectable spread that included pulled pork sliders, chicken and waffles, chicken skewers, and pierogies. Visit Wild Onyinz to learn more!
Vellum Fermentation: Vellum Fermentation, a local craft beer provider, was another crucial addition to our event. We wanted to showcase the talents of local brewers and provide our guests with an array of finely crafted brews that added a touch of sophistication to the evening. Visit Velum Fermentation to check out their craft beer selection!
Chad Isaiah Photography: Chad Isaiah, a local photographer, worked his magic behind the lens, capturing the essence of the event with stunning photographs. By supporting local talent, we not only received exceptional photography but also contributed to the growth of our local creative community. Visit Chad Isaiah Photography to book a session!
Eat’n Park: As guests were leaving the event, they were treated to the iconic smiley cookies from Eat’n Park. This well-loved local institution provided a sweet and memorable ending to our celebration. If you loved the cookies visit Eat’n Park to order!
CPI Creative: CPI Creative, a local design company, played a crucial role in designing our flashlights for the Shine a Light Ceremony. Their contribution not only added a creative and impactful element to our event but also supported local design expertise. Visit CPI Creative to order custom swag!
The Visionaries Behind Equality Careers
At the heart of this event was the visionary leadership of Jessica Eberley, Founder, and CEO of Equality Careers. Her passion for creating a job ecosystem that transcends traditional norms and empowers individuals from all backgrounds, orientations, and abilities was evident in her words and actions throughout the evening.
In collaboration with Meesha Gerhart, CEO of Red Tree Web Design , Equality Careers introduced a cutting-edge platform that seamlessly connects job seekers with forward-thinking employers. This platform not only values diversity but also recognizes and celebrates the unique skills and perspectives that each individual brings to the table.
The Impact of Special Guest, Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto
The evening was made even more remarkable with the presence of a distinguished guest, Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto. Chief Scirotto is not only a dedicated law enforcement professional but also a prominent advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. His commitment to inclusivity and his efforts to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the LGBTQIA+ community have made a significant impact in Pittsburgh.
Chief Scirotto’s attendance at the Equality Careers Ribbon Cutting Event underscored the importance of building bridges and fostering inclusivity in our community. His presence served as a symbol of unity, collaboration, and the shared goal of creating a more equitable and inclusive city.
As an influential figure in Pittsburgh, Chief Scirotto’s support for Equality Careers and the LGBTQIA+ community reaffirms the significance of our mission. His dedication to making Pittsburgh a safer and more welcoming place for all resonated deeply with the attendees and added an invaluable layer of significance to the event.
Highlights of the Evening
The event promised a blend of inspiration, information, and networking, and it certainly delivered on that promise. Attendees had the opportunity to:
- Witness the Equality Careers Platform: Live demonstrations of the Equality Careers platform showcased its user-friendly design and the seamless way it connects job seekers with inclusive employers.
- Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Attendees had the chance to connect with community leaders, diversity advocates, and legislators who shared the vision of creating more inclusive workplaces. These conversations sparked important discussions about the future of work.
- Enjoy Networking Opportunities: The evening offered enticing cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and ample networking opportunities, fostering connections among like-minded individuals committed to workplace equality.
The Equality Careers Ribbon Cutting Event was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication of The Three Rivers Business Alliance, HRT Solutions, and RedTree Web Design. It served as a reminder that inclusivity and diversity are not just buzzwords but integral values that can transform the workforce for the better. The venue, the passionate leaders, and the inspiring stories all came together to create an unforgettable evening of celebration and commitment to a more inclusive future.
Join the Movement for Workplace Equality
As we reflect on this historic event, we are reminded that progress is possible when visionary leaders and organizations come together to champion equality in the workplace. If you missed this remarkable event, don’t worry; you can still join the movement. Visit their inclusive job board to explore the platform, connect with equal opportunity employers and take the first step toward a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce.
Equality Careers is not just a platform; it’s a symbol of hope and progress in the pursuit of workplace equality. Together, we can create a future where everyone has equal access to opportunities, regardless of their background or identity. Be part of this transformation and make a difference in the world of work.
