The Importance of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Grape and Wine Industries (June 7, 2021)

On June 7th, from 9 AM – 12:30 PM PT via Zoom, the Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis presented a program on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Grape and Wine Industries. Representatives from UC Davis and individuals working in the wine and grape industries discussed the following topics:

• Increasing diversity among students at UC Davis and in the Department of Viticulture and Enology
• Increasing diversity in the grape and wine industries • Promoting a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace
• Opening the door to underrepresented consumers
• Making wine more accessible

The program featured welcoming remarks by UCD Chancellor, Gary May, and College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Dean, Helene Dillard, a keynote presentation by Julia Coney, panel discussions, and moderated Q&A conversations. The event was intended to provide the industry with perspectives, experiences, and initiatives, leaving attendees with actionable items that they can use in their own work as it relates to DEI – whether it be diversifying their companies, ensuring a diverse future workforce, or diversifying their consumer base and making wine more accessible to underrepresented customers.