The Marlton-based nonprofit DEON (Diversity & Equal Opportunity Network) has announced it will again partner with the township and the Human Rights Advisory Committee for the second annual Cultural Day event on Oct. 8.
The nonprofit’s goal is to address racial disparities and social and economic equity in public education and the community at large. It aims to fill the gap for the minority population by remediating legislation, providing youth and child mentoring programs, sponsoring community events, consulting on diversity training and speaker educational workshops.
DEON uses its network of partnerships, contacts and collaborative initiatives to bring education and awareness to all communities. Since the organization was founded in January 2021, it has been involved in hosting a wide range of events that celebrate Burlington County and the area’s diverse community.
The inaugural Culture Day in the township took place last year. After its success, DEON again partnered with the township and the Human Rights Advisory Committee (HRAC), inviting the community to embrace the myriad of cultural flavors, sounds and experiences that make up the community at large.
At the free event, residents can expect a showcase of Indigenous, Black, Asian American, Pacific Islander (AAPI) and people of color (POC) as well as minority- owned businesses to go along with entertainment, activities, food and music.
Shelja Touri, chairperson and founder of the nonprofit, said DEON is still seeking additional vendors.
“We want to have a range of vendors, minority-led businesses, organizations,” she explained. “We also want to welcome groups of people from around the world who would like to just share about their culture.
“We want to continue creating these community events and we encourage anyone to come out and learn about different cultures,” Touri added. “We hope to have students get involved with the performances and be a part of the vendor tables, where they’re able to share the different cultures of the world.”
Cultural Day hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m at Evesboro Downs Park, on Evesboro-Medford Road. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held at the Blue Barn, 1004 Tuckerton Road.
For more information about the nonprofit and its upcoming events, visit www.deon4change.org or email [email protected].
