Taco ‘Bout Diversity and Inclusion at Shift Change

At the best of times, the restaurant industry is tough going. And in these times (we’re not about to call them “the worst” and tempt fate like that) those working in hospitality are especially vulnerable, particularly folks who belong to marginalized communities.

In order to support those who need it (and make the industry more friendly for everyone), Gino Di Domenico and his team at Tacofino are bringing back their annual Shift Change initiative. This year, of course, it’s online—and accessible to everyone. The series of free monthly Zoom sessions will feature local keynote speakers aiming to change the hospitality industry for the better. It’s not all talk, either—Tacofino is donating $1,250 to each speaker’s charity of choice (that’s $5,000) total.

Yesterday, they announced the first two sessions. On Tuesday, November 17, the co-founders of the Co-Laboratorio project (Kristina Henriksson and Hogan’s Alley Society board of directors co-chair June Francis) will talk about equity, diversity and inclusion for racialized groups within the industry. On Tuesday, December 8, QMUNITY education and training specialist Rana Nu will cover queer competency for the hospitality industry.

Though these topics are centered around people in the hospitality industry, they’re open to the public. And even if you don’t work in a restaurant, we know you reap the benefits of the folks who do (we’ve seen those takeout boxes in your recycling bin). 

You can find tickets to Shift Change here and visit their website, shiftchangenow.com, for more info.