RIDC In Action: More Than Just Words

Nov 7

By Kiera Smalls, Executive Director

I was told that in 2021 when the RIDC first appeared at The Running Event (TRE), only 10 to 15 people attended our deep dive session. In 2022, attendance soared to 100, representing a shift that exceeded our expectations and showcased our expanding influence and the increasing importance of our mission.

In 2022, the first year TRE proposed RIDC scholarships, we supported approximately 10 BIPOC retail leaders. This year, in 2023, we’re proud to announce that we’ve increased that number to 25, more than doubling our reach.

The Backstory

For those unfamiliar, TRE is often called the premier trade show in run specialty. Hundreds of brands and retailers attend this event to uncover prime business deals, sample new products, network, learn, celebrate, and more!

Our impact on this event and the communities we serve was not mere serendipity but the result of deliberate effort. The work we put in is because the trade show lacked visibility, inclusion, and access for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, and this galvanized us, TRE staff, and our member organizations to ramp up the RIDC's involvement in service of our mission.

Conversations with past TRE attendees revealed a trend: The event has catered predominantly to retail owners and sales managers. Left unchecked, this could result in the event continuing to see disproportionately few people of color among the hundreds who attend and benefit from being in the space.

In response to this, the RIDC has taken decisive action over the last two years.

We’ve introduced additional, distinct programming and activities during TRE that appeal to retailers and brands, and a broader audience. Including our CommUnity Run/Walk, powered by Saucony and THE COOKOUT, to name a few.
We’ve challenged registered brands and retailers to bring people of color from their teams to attend, participate, and have access to the event’s resources and benefits.
We’ve evolved our scholarship program beyond the initial proposal from TRE, which was to help bring 10 BIPOC-owned retailers to the event by covering full-access registration and hotel. Instead of solely focusing on owners and managers, we’ve broadened our scope to send future retail leaders as well. We also expanded our scholarships by adding in On, who has covered the remaining costs, ensuring a fully funded experience for the recipients. This evolution indicates our steadfast dedication to fostering systemic change and ownership within our industry.
Finally, we’ve supported and advised TRE staff in their own efforts to make the event more welcoming, inviting, and inclusive.

Looking Ahead

Check out the RIDC's plans taking place during #TRE23. Meet the leaders we are bringing with us, from folks in the world of run specialty to trailblazing community organizers, supported by our robust team of contractors and volunteers. These individuals exemplify the passion and commitment that drive the RIDC’s work forward. While you’re in Austin, join us at THE COOKOUT, our community fundraiser kickoff event. THE COOKOUT is free to enter thanks to our event sponsors, but I’d get there early if I were you.

Closing Thoughts

As the Executive Director of the RIDC, I cannot express enough gratitude for the continued support and dedication of our member organizations and community. The growth you’ve witnessed in just a few short years is not only a testament to the resilience and drive of the BIPOC community but also an acknowledgment from the industry of the unparalleled efforts and contributions made possible by this coalition.

This journey is more than just about numbers or percentages; it's about shaping environments where everyone can truly grow, succeed, and thrive. Our journey with TRE and our efforts to support BIPOC residents and businesses in Texas offer a window into our broader mission.

Every stride we take, every leader we uplift, and every barrier we dismantle is a step toward a better running industry for everyone.

Kiera Smalls

Executive Director, RIDC

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