Women in Government Relations: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit
Dr. Rachael Forester, Senior Consultant, Inclusion & Belonging, at Nonprofit HR, Powered by OneDigital, will be leading a session on Evolving Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: A Business and Social Imperative during this summit.
Pushback or Progress: Evaluating the Relevance of DEI in 2025
WGR’s 6th Annual DEI Summit is a dynamic, action-driven event designed to empower professionals across the government relations field. This hybrid experience blends interactive virtual programming with an in-person reception, offering a comprehensive two-day opportunity for learning, networking, and professional growth. The Summit brings together government relations professionals from all backgrounds and identities who are committed to fostering inclusive advocacy, driving equitable policy outcomes, and advancing diverse leadership in the policy-making process.
Location: Virtual event with optional in-person reception (Washington, D.C.)
Dates: May 6 – 7, 2025
All sessions will be recorded and sent to registrants following the Summit.
Registration FEES |
Virtual Summit
|
Reception Only |
| Member | $125 | $35 |
| Non-Member | $175 | $45 |
For more details and registration FAQ’s click here.
To learn more about WGR’s commitment to DEI, click here.
Details include:
- A program developed by us, for everyone. The Summit is for advocates and government relations professionals who want to deepen their awareness, build their skills, and become more effective and resilient. No prior DEI expertise is needed.
- A chance to celebrate the professional advancement of women in this field, through plenaries that assess and acknowledge what has powered our progress.
- Opportunities to learn, create, and gain clarity. Workshop sessions designed to build the skills and insights that you need to increase your personal and organizational impact. Read on for more detail on our learning strands.
- Virtual networking sessions and an in-person reception in downtown Washington, DC to expand and diversify your professional community committed to shared values.
What to Expect
The landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is shifting in ways we’ve never seen before. Organizations are pulling back, institutions are redefining their commitments, and the role of DEI in the workplace—and in advocacy—is being questioned. Some are doubling down on their DEI efforts, while others are stepping away, citing political, legal, or strategic considerations.
As professionals in government relations, we cannot ignore these shifts. We must ask:
- What is the future of DEI? Will it evolve, be redefined, or lose its standing?
- How does this impact advocacy and policymaking? Are DEI principles still seen as essential in shaping policy and engaging stakeholders?
- How do we respond to the challenges? Should we reframe DEI to better address political and cultural shifts, or is this an opportunity to strengthen its foundation?
This year’s WGR DEI Summit will take a critical look at these pressing questions. We’ll explore:
- The pushback against DEI—Is it a threat or an opportunity for progress?
- The role of government relations professionals in navigating DEI within organizations, policymaking, and advocacy.
- How organizations can maintain a commitment to equity while adapting to the current political and corporate climate.
- Strategies for bridging divides and expanding DEI’s reach, ensuring continued impact in advocacy and public policy.
As the conversation around DEI evolves, this Summit will equip attendees with insights, strategies, and the tools necessary to navigate these complexities. Now more than ever, we must examine whether we are simply reacting to the moment—or shaping the future of inclusion and equity in our profession.
Nonprofit HR Speaker
 |
| Dr. Rachael Forester Senior Consultant, Inclusion & Belonging View full bio |