Setting the Pace: The Running Industry Diversity Coalition’s Exciting Plans During TRE 2024
"Over the past four years, RIDC’s involvement with TRE has transformed not just the event but also the running industry at large. The partnership has made a noticeable difference at the annual conference and trade show, challenging TRE to evolve in ways that align with RIDC’s mission and in return, creating ripple effects throughout the industry. To learn more about TRE 2024, taking place November 19-21 in Austin, TX, visit the event website or send the TRE team an email at info@therunningevent.com." – TRE
As a TRE partner, we're dedicated to ensuring increased visibility, inclusion, and access for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Our offerings promise to be even more impactful this year. Check out a sneak peek our 2024 plans!
All Week Long
Support BIPOC businesses in Texas. While concerns about conducting business in Texas persist, our commitment to the success of BIPOC businesses and residents remains unwavering. The RIDC is collaborating with local BIPOC-owned companies and residents for our board meeting, TRE booth needs and event staffing, and the planning and execution of our community event, THE COOKOUT. Our educational sessions will center on uplifting BIPOC communities, and we will be patronizing BIPOC-owned or operated restaurants for our dining experiences. Let's all work together to empower and elevate the local communities and businesses.
Increase BIPOC presence. We're thrilled to work with TRE and On to offer an increased number of scholarships to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color working in run specialty–from owners and managers to frontline employees. Meet our recipients in next month's newsletter! We will also bring the RUN THE BLOCK winner with us to TRE!
Monday
RIDC Board Meeting: The RIDC staff and board will be in Austin a few days earlier for our board meeting. We use this time for reflection, strategic planning, and reinforcing our commitment to continuous racial justice training.
Tuesday
90-Minute Deep Dive: 'The Future of Run Specialty from the RIDC Lens: Relevance and Consumer Loyalty.' Discover the blueprint for success in the evolving run specialty industry. The RIDC will bring together retailers and brands to share about their impactful community collaborations from 2023/2024 that redefine on-the-ground engagement and build long-term consumer trust and loyalty. Learn how these companies stay relevant in a competitive market, guided by their community partnerships.
Private Mixer: We are bringing back our welcome event for RIDCxOnxTRE scholarship recipients, staff, and board.
Wednesday
CommUnity Run/Walk, powered by Saucony: Connect and run with local Austin-run groups and running industry leaders from across the country for a unique experience. The Trail of Lights won't be open in time, but we still have fun plans for you!!
Creating Inclusive, Diverse, Safe, and Meaningful Spaces, Panel hosted by Rising Hearts: Join us for an insightful discussion from organizational and athlete perspectives as we share what it takes to go beyond a one time opportunity, creating meaningful relationships rooted in reciprocity and spaces where we see ourselves. We will also share how to engage with Brands and Companies to create safe, inclusive, diverse spaces, where athletes and communities feel protected in who they are, the communities and causes they represent and support.
THE COOKOUT: To be invited to THE COOKOUT signifies being entrusted with a valued place at our table, within our community, and alongside our family. This invitation comes with a responsibility to respect the cultures present and nurture connections beyond this singular occasion. The event is free, and no special tickets are needed except your RSVP! Check out highlights from last year and register here.
Saucony will be serving a specialty mocktail, "Cheers To CommUnity," in celebration of our final CommUnity Run/Walk in Austin. Meanwhile, PYNRS will conclude their "Spin The Block" event nearby—so get your team of 3 ready to compete! They say prizes will be awarded for the best drip, best energy, and fastest speed!
Thursday
All Day. The RIDC booth is the place to be! Over the course of two days, our staff, board members, and community will be there, and we can't wait to see you. Stop by to meet with us, grab some resources, check out our merch, and enjoy exciting giveaways!