October is Global Diversity Awareness Month, a time to reflect on our values, celebrate our differences and commit to building a more inclusive workplace. This month also marks Learning Week 2025, a dedicated time for professional growth, cross-cultural understanding and community building.
Global Diversity Awareness Month: Actions That Matter
Challenge Bias
Explore tools and trainings that help uncover unconscious bias and promote inclusive behaviors.
- Take the Harvard Implicit Association Test to check for unconscious bias and learn how to address it.
- Watch Valerie Alexander’s TED Talk on how awareness can reshape expectations.
- Take Switch AI courses:
Support Equitable Access
Advocate for accessibility in meetings, documents and digital platforms. Here are two training options:
- Best practices for designing inclusive experiences (15 minutes)
- The Neu Project: Designing Neuroinclusive Experiences
Helpful Resources
Documentaries:
- “Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution” – A summer camp for disabled teens sparks a movement
- “13th” – Examines race, justice and mass incarceration in the U.S.
- “The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson” – Chronicles the life of a pioneering LGBTQ+ activist
Books:
- “So You Want to Talk About Race” by Ijeoma Oluo – A guide to navigating conversations about race and racism
- “The Person You Mean to Be” by Dolly Chugh – A roadmap for becoming a more inclusive and self-aware leader
- “Disability Visibility,” edited by Alice Wong – A collection of essays by disabled people sharing their lived experiences
Podcasts:
- Code Switch – From NPR, this podcast explores race and identity in everyday life.
- Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox – Ranked in the top 5% globally, this podcast goes beyond surface-level DEI.
Learning & Development
Learning Week 2025: Oct. 14-17
MCI USA will host its annual Learning Week from Oct. 14-17, offering a rich lineup of interactive sessions designed to foster growth and connection. Join us for sessions focused on:
- Leadership development
- AS and SEM&I learning tracks
- Soft skills that stick
All sessions will feature AI.
MCI Learning Tools
- Skill Bites are short, focused 15-minute courses on emotional intelligence, people development and management.
- Switch AI
Upcoming: November Lunch & Learn – “Exploring Event Industry Certifications”
Learn about the wide range of professional certifications available, from broad credentials such as the CMP and CEM to specialized designations in digital events, sustainability and more. Discover what each certification entails, who it’s designed for, and how it can help you strengthen your expertise, stand out in the industry and provide individuals with the industry best practices.
Other Important Observances in October
- National Disability Employment Awareness Month
- LGBTQ+ History Month
- World Mental Health Day (Oct. 10)
- Indigenous Peoples Day (Oct. 13)
Become a Champion
If you’re interested in joining the MCI USA Sustainability Champions, reach out at ussustainabilitychamps@wearemci.com or directly to Megan Weygandt at megan.weygandt@wearemci.com.
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