Press Releases

BIJC Launches Educational Program Promoting Diversity

The program is hosted by Black in Jewelry Coalition and sponsored by leading organizations.

Published

2 years ago

January 18, 2022

Press Releases

BIJC Launches Educational Program Promoting Diversity

(PRESS RELEASE) The Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC), the first international non-profit membership organization for the advancement of Black professionals in the gem, jewelry, and watch industry, is hosting The Jewelry Industry I.D.E.A. educational program, promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equity for all. Sponsored by the jewelry industry’s leading organizations, this two-part online educational program will help every person in the jewelry industry recognize and confront ingrained cultural biases that create profound community damage and break down cohesion in the workplace.

“The jewelry industry’s leading organizations have joined forces with one common goal—to provide a complimentary inclusivity and diversity educational program designed to be accessible for everyone that works in the jewelry, gem and watch industry,” says BIJC President Annie Doresca.

The two-part program will feature information-rich webinars that will be available to watch live or on-demand. All attendees that complete both sessions will receive a certificate of completion. Both sessions are free of charge and will offer replays through July.

Get Rid of the BS
January 19, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Risha Grant, a renowned expert on diversity and inclusion, will host “Get Rid of the BS.” Risha has a no-holds-barred style and will tackle hard but necessary questions about how to address social unrest and racial injustice. She’ll also offer practical advice for how to confront and get past biases to create more respectful, diverse, and inclusive communities. Registration is now available.

Encounters with Bias and Racism: A Panel Discussion
February 16, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Listen to first-person accounts of bias and racism in the retail setting from both consumers and employees. This session will use real-world scenarios to showcase how each encounter could have been avoided. The panel will be led by Reggie Johnson, Chief Diversity Officer/Senior VP at Signet Jewelers and a director for the Black in Jewelry Coalition. Registration for this session is now available. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

The Jewelry Industry I.D.E.A. Training Program is offered by Black in Jewelry Coalition and is presented in partnership with American Gem Society (AGS), Buyers Intelligence Group (BIG), Ethical Metalsmiths, Jewelers Board of Trade (JBT), Jewelers of America (JA), Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC), Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA), Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) and Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA).

Please visit blackinjewelry.org/i-d-e-a to learn more about the Jewelry Industry I.D.E.A. educational program and membership with BIJC.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”