There’s Still Time to Sign Up for BIJC’s IDEA Sessions

New York—The Black in Jewelry Coalition’s I.D.E.A. education program is slated to kick off next week with a session on addressing racial justice and confronting and, ultimately, moving past biases. 

I.D.E.A. stands for inclusivity, diversity, and equity for all.

The two-part online educational program was designed to help everyone in the jewelry industry recognize and confront the ingrained cultural biases that damage communities and negatively impact the workplace. 

Renowned diversity and inclusion expert Risha Grant will host the first session, titled “Get Rid of the BS.” It is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 19 at 2 p.m. EST. 

Signet Jewelers Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Vice President Reggie Johnson will lead the second session, a discussion on racism and bias in retail. 

Panelists will listen to first-person accounts from both consumers and employees who have experienced racism. The session will use real-world scenarios to showcase how each encounter could’ve been avoided. 

“Encounters with Bias and Racism: A Panel Discussion” is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 16 at 2 p.m.

Learn more about both sessions and register on the BIJC website.

The Jewelry Industry I.D.E.A. Training Program is offered by BIJC in partnership with the following industry organizations: the American Gem Society, Buyers Intelligence Group, Ethical Metalsmiths, Jewelers Board of Trade, Jewelers of America, Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America, Responsible Jewellery Council, and the Women’s Jewelry Association.

Formed in the summer of 2020 amid the racial reckoning that started in the United States and spread worldwide, the Black in Jewelry Coalition is the first international nonprofit membership organization for the advancement of Black professionals in the gem, jewelry, and watch industry.