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One million acres of forest protected under The Conservation Fund, including in OR; Trump seeks to set aside his New York hush money guilty verdict after Supreme Court immunity ruling; 'Share the Pennies' weatherization program tackles climate solutions, reduces cost; Utah feels the impact of California's ban on gestation crates.

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SCOTUS gives former President Trump a huge win in terms of immunity, which might apply to charges of election interference. A new poll finds future court appointments are crucial for voters, and President Biden continues to face post-debate calls to leave the race.

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Ugly, imperfect produce destined for the landfill is being upcycled by a California candy company, a Texas volunteer uses his Navy training to map the gaps in broadband, and Pennsylvania has a new commission tasked with reversing its shrinking rural population.

Texas Diversity Council remains steadfast in face of adversity

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Thursday, April 11, 2024   

Since 2004, April has been designated "Celebrate Diversity Month," a time to recognize, understand and honor the differences between people.

One Texas organization said the mission is now more important than ever. In a state which lately has been known for not welcoming some people, the Texas Diversity Council has been at the forefront of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion for two decades.

Angeles Valenciano, CEO of the council, said they offer training and consulting at businesses and schools, to help everyone see the benefits of a diverse environment.

"Those organizations that really focus on DEI programs are outpacing and growing at a much faster rate than those that do not have programs," Valenciano observed.

Last year, the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 17, banning DEI programs on public college campuses. The University of Texas in Austin has fired around 60 employees who worked in DEI programs.

Valenciano emphasized the ban will not stop their work and they will find different ways to partner with the universities.

The council holds its annual Diversity and Leadership Conference in Dallas, April 15-18. Speakers include Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, basketball great Magic Johnson, and former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder.

Valenciano acknowledged legislation statewide and nationally has created challenges, and even though the council is nonpartisan, it will stand by candidates who support the mission.

"As much as we feel that the playing field is changing and that things are in a way kind of going backwards in the progress that we have made, we are still committed," Valenciano stressed.

She added ways to observe Celebrate Diversity Month include being considerate to everyone, listening to people from other cultures and learning more about different cultures and lifestyles.


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