UNITY — “Diverse cultures, races, genders and identities are positive forces that bring greater perspectives and drive positive change – and a new grassroots community organization is determined to prove that point in this small town of 2,000+ residents,” said Diversity in Unity, in a news release.

Diversity in Unity was formed in April of this year when a group of local residents came together on a mission to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in Unity, Maine and the Greater Waldo County area. The organization is led by a group of local business owners and members of the community who are committed to break down barriers and invite understanding on why diversity is a crucial piece of what makes communities great.

“As a society, we need to champion diversity and inclusion for our citizens, employees, customers and neighbors. It’s as simple as that,” says Colleen Maguire, co-founder of Diversity in Unity. “It’s important to ensure that everyone, regardless of what they believe in or what they look like, is treated fairly and justly — and has the same opportunity to succeed as everyone else.”

In the months ahead, the group intends to celebrate a range of diverse communities that may include Indigenous People’s Day, Black History Month, Women’s History Month and Veterans Day commemorations. Coinciding with the group’s launch, the first celebration will correspond with Pride Month.

Each June, Pride Month is celebrated in towns and cities across America to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York and to recognize the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) community and the fight for equal rights. 

Many Maine communities are vibrant and diverse, with citizens from all walks of life, rich histories and backgrounds, ethnicities, heritages and economic levels.

“Further embedding the values of diversity, equity and inclusion into a small town’s culture begins with raising awareness and expanding understanding — and Diversity in Unity is up for the challenge,” said the release.

“We may be a young group, but we’re mighty,” says Maguire, who serves on the organization’s Board of Directors. “Our mantra is ‘lead with love to support, unite and empower everyone.’ If we can help educate and enlighten people about how our differences bring greater diversity of thought and ideas to our community, then we’ll know we’re making progress.”

For more information about the group and how to get involved, visit DiversityInUnity.org or follow the group on Facebook.

Calendar of Upcoming ‘Diversity in Unity’ Events to Support Pride Month

Saturday, June 3
11 a.m.: Pride Parade leaves Field of Dreams (9 Bangor Road, Unity, ME) and proceeds to Triplet Park (Wood Lane in Unity, ME)
12 p.m.: Family Barbecue at Triplet Park (Wood Lane in Unity, ME), sponsored by Bangor Savings Bank

Saturday, June 10
10 a.m. until work is done: Community Cleanup at Field of Dreams (9 Bangor Road, Unity, ME)

Saturday, June 17
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Makers Fair at Unity Pond Pottery (222 Bangor Road, Unity, ME)

Wednesday, June 21
12 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Solstice Celebration at Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm (141 Crosby Brook Road, Unity, ME)

Sunday, June 25
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.: 5k Color Fun Run at Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm (141 Crosby Brook Road, Unity, ME), sponsored by Camden National Bank

Friday June 30

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Pride Celebration at Stone Tree Farm & Cidery (317 Albion Road, Unity, ME)

Formed in April 2023, Diversity in Unity is a local community organization with a mission to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in Unity, Maine and the Greater Waldo County area. Members of the organization are from all walks of life and backgrounds. From local community events and informational presentations to live art, music, tours, exhibitions and more, Diversity in Unity seeks to provide community members with an opportunity to break down barriers and invite understanding on why diversity is a crucial piece of what makes communities great.

For more information about the group and how to get involved, visit DiversityInUnity.org or follow the group on Facebook.