HIGH POINT — The High Point Market Authority (HPMA) is calling for nominations for three inaugural diversity awards, open now through June 14. The awards, given in partnership with the Diversity Advocacy Alliance (DAA), include an Open Arms Award, a Mentorship Award and a Social Responsibility Award.

• Open Arms Award: Recognizing a High Point Market exhibitor that sets the gold standard for inclusivity toward all showroom visitors, irrespective of their race, gender or orientation. Exhibitor nominees are expected to demonstrate commitment to supporting diversity through employment practices and marketing materials.
• Mentorship Award: Honoring industry individuals who share knowledge and experience to nurture both existing and next-generation professionals. Recipients should exhibit dedication and leadership, with a track record of guiding and supporting emerging designers, particularly from underrepresented backgrounds.
• Social Responsibility Award: Celebrating individuals or companies driving positive societal change and promoting inclusivity beyond the biannual High Point Market events. This award acknowledges efforts to empower designers from diverse backgrounds, recognizing diversity’s pivotal role in fostering innovation, creativity and unique perspectives within the industry.

“Diversity, equity and inclusion in the home furnishings industry is made possible through many voices and stakeholders,” said DuVäl Reynolds, a DAA founding board member and principal of interior design firm DuVäl Design. “We’re excited to recognize the individuals and brands at High Point Market doing their part to support our goals.”

For more details on award criteria and to access the nomination form, visit the Diversity Advocacy Alliance page on the High Point Market website. Nominees are invited to submit a 500-word statement explaining why they deserve the award. Winners will be announced during the fall market.

Established in 2022, the DAA focuses on advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within the home furnishings sector. With 13 founding members, DAA is managed by Change Often, a social innovation firm. The group is committed to increasing representation of the BIPOC community and promoting equitable policies and practices across the industry and its leadership.

“The inaugural DAA awards reflect a new way to amplify and celebrate diversity within our industry,” said Tammy Nagem, HPMA president and CEO. “HPMA is fully aligned with the DAA mission to cultivate a supportive environment for all High Point Market attendees, and we look forward to announcing the 2024 award recipients in October.”

See also:

• Message to brands from Gen Z: Multiculturalism matters
• Diversity and inclusion are key words for 2030 workforce

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