Community Conversations was conducted as part of DEI UNITED, a partnership between the Albuquerque Community Foundation and United Way of Central New Mexico, are intended to help inform how philanthropy can best contribute to race equity and social justice solutions. They provide a place where people in the community can come together to talk about their aspirations, concerns, and discuss how they want their community to move forward.

The first set of conversations was completed in the fall of 2020. View the report: 2020 Community Conversations Report

Acknowledging the problem of racism, and the privilege and self-questioning associated with racism were two of the top themes discussed in nine “kitchen style” Community Conversations held in 2020 with 42 community members. There was also a recognition that our community needs more structure around diversity, equity, and inclusion and needs to be more representative of our community. 

The second set of conversations was completed in the fall of 2021. View the report: 2021 Community Conversations Report

View the DEI United: 2021 Community Conversation Results

During this virtual meeting, we shared the Community Conversation report findings and hosted a discussion of how those findings can inform our community’s opportunities to be more equitable and inclusive. In addition, we heard from our organizations’ leaders, Randy Royster and Rodney Prunty, regarding our commitment to support diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our special guest, Michelle Melendez, Director of Equity and Inclusion for the City of Albuquerque, also provided remarks.