Saddle Brook, NJ – March 10, 2023- Greater Bergen REALTORS® (GBR) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee (DEI) returned to the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Fort Lee, NJ, on February 28th to commemorate Black History Month at their Annual Black History Month Celebration: History, Reflection, and Success. The evening highlighted the advancements that Black American homeowners and REALTORS® have made over the years through adversities within the real estate industry.
This year, the association was honored to invite speakers from the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB REALTIST), New Jersey Association of Minority Real Estate Professionals (NJAMREP), Regional Vice President, William Collins, and President, Mayarani Smith, to take the stage. Both speakers shared their insight on the important work of NAREB in the real estate industry, and the history of its inception.
The keynote speaker and Vice President of NJAMREP, Queenella Gibson, guided a conversation regarding democracy in housing and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Gibson captivated the audience with her moving account of her background and impressive professional career, also sighted in her latest published book, “I am Here: Affirmations of a REALTOR”.
After an incredible evening of great food and amazing speakers, the DEI committee welcomed the Unity Community Center Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble to perform for an energized and inspired audience.
GBR’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee continues to carry out their mission to increase awareness and appreciation of the multi-cultural diversity within our community as well as eliminating discriminatory practices in housing. At the end of March, the committee is hosting a Women’s History Month roundtable, “Bridging the Gap, Building a Future: Raising a Generation of Powerful Women Together”, and will be hosting an informed panel discussion for Fair Housing Month this April.
DEI 2023 Chair, Dora Omana shared, “Our job is to invite conversation, and to encourage members to get comfortable with the uncomfortable. By coming together to recognize, acknowledge, and discuss important topics, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all."