DE&I Spotlight

In early 2021, the City of Irvine passed a resolution reaffirming Irvine's commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in our City and subsequently formed a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. The committee's first campaign, We Are Irvine, aims to embrace and celebrate diversity and foster an environment that is inclusive of all cultures, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, ages, abilities, perspectives, and ways of thinking. 

This web page is an arm of the We Are Irvine campaign and will be updated regularly to reflect the current and upcoming celebrations and observances of our community members and residents. For more health and human Services information, visit our We Are Irvine webpage.

City of Irvine DE&I Events
Irvine Multicultural Association City Proclamations and Resolutions
Mock Village Proposal Disability Services

October 2024

For a description of all DEI recognitions, view our DE&I Calendar.

City of Irvine DE&I Events & Recognitions

Irvine Global Village Festival: October 5
Great Park

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Irvine Global Village Festival is Orange County's premier multicultural event. It is a full day of food, art, music, and a celebration of Irvine's diverse community. Join us on Saturday, October 5 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. for this annual family-friendly festival featuring local and global cuisine, a global marketplace, entertainment, and cultural exhibits highlighting traditions from all around the world. Learn more at irvinefestival.org

City Proclamations and Resolutions

Indigenous Peoples’ Day: October 14, 2024
At its meeting, Tuesday September 24, the City of Irvine proclaimed October 14, 2024 as "Indigenous Peoples' Day," honoring the rich heritage and contributions of the Indigenous Peoples of our region, particularly the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians Acjachemen Nation. This day serves as a reminder of the historical and ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous Peoples, as well as a celebration of their vibrant culture, knowledge, and contributions to our community.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day invites us to reflect on the systemic racism that continues to affect Indigenous communities, perpetuating poverty and inequality. The City of Irvine encourages public officials, educators, businesses, and all residents of Irvine to observe this day, acknowledging the invaluable cultural contributions that have shaped our City and committing to the work of supporting and uplifting Indigenous voices.

Irvine Multicultural Association

The Irvine Multicultural Association (IMA) is a program designed for Irvine's senior residents and offers educational resources and social functions for the community. IMA's mission is to promote harmony and understanding for a better, enlightened, and healthier community. The association was formed by the same group that introduced Irvine's Global Village Festival to the community over 20 years ago.

IMA's planning committee seeks to highlight a particular culture each month through programs like their International Film Series, the English Mentoring Program, and other outlets. For more information on these programs and events, see the DEI events section above, or visit their webpage

The IMA planning committee is looking for additional members to join the committee. Ideal representatives share the mission of the association. Please see the flier below for more information. 

Irvine Multicultural Association Flier

Mock Village Proposal

The Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation are the original inhabitants of the lands that became the County of Orange. Archaeological evidence shows an Acjachemen presence in this region for over 10,000 years. The Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation are interested in establishing a mock village in Irvine. The Irvine City Council is proposing to create a mock village, which is being advanced by Payómkawichum Kaàmalam, which is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit with over thirty years of experience as a cultural advocate and cultural resource manager for the Acjachemen people.

Possible locations for such a mock village in our City could be in the Portola Springs Community Park. City staff is working to create a project to facilitate the design of the proposed mock village at Portola Springs Community Park. The mock village would resemble what the tribal members lived in and could showcase structures that the Acjachemen used as shelter.  A historian and design firm would assist the City of Irvine in engagement efforts and project planning for the mock village.  The Irvine City Council will continue the conversation and proposal at a future meeting in September or October 2024. 

Disability Services

March Disability Services Social & Recreational Programs

Social & Recreational Programs

Inclusion Club
Join us in an engaging afternoon program with educational and fun daily activities including crafts, sports, games, cooking, science, and more.  Ages 10+.
Wednesdays, March 6, 13, 20, & 27
2–6 p.m.

Register Here 

Sweet Shade Creative Arts Series: Mixed Media
Practice and master artistic techniques. Staff will guide you through various lessons to develop your skills and creativity in different art mediums.  Ages 10+.
Thursday, March 14
3:30–5 p.m.
Irvine Fine Arts Center

Register Here   

Teen Night at Sweet Shade: Games Galore
Come join us and make new friends at Sweet Shade Ability Center as we host a night of fun and socialization. Snacks provided. Our programs and events are structured to be modified or adaptive, and are open for all to attend. Ages 12–16.
Friday, March 15
6–8 p.m.

Register Here 

Friday Night Social Club: Spring Fling
Friday Night Social Club provides fun recreational activities while encouraging social interaction. Come make new friends and socialize. Snacks provided. Ages 10+.
Friday, March 22
6–8 p.m.

Register Here 

Adaptive Dance
This adaptive dance class encourages exercise and improves body coordination, flexibility, and strength. Instructor promotes free spirit, enjoyment, and laughter. Ages 10+.
Thursday, March 28
6–7 p.m.

Register Here