Pernod Ricard ’ s Women U-Night

As part of International Women ’ s Day this year , 24HourDallas hosted a “ girl ’ s night out ” in the Dallas Arts District called Women U-Night , which featured libations , networking and support from local organizations . The event was sponsored by Pernod Ricard USA , Responsibility . org and Central Market .

PRUSA chairman Ann Mukherjee , a longstanding resident of Dallas , gave remarks at the event highlighting the critical role nighttime business leaders must play to create safe and inclusive atmospheres for all people .

She also encouraged businesses to sign the Women ’ s Nighttime Safety Charter pledge and participate in the Copper Star certification program .

“ To ensure safety within our local community , it ’ s vital that our nightlife businesses champion the safety of women at local establishments ,” Mukherjee said .

“ As part of Pernod Ricard ’ s longstanding commitment to promote responsible drinking , it ’ s our duty as leaders in the industry and the community to encourage local residents and businesses to take action .”

Women of Westward

For the past three years , Westward Whiskey has honored female leadership in the spirits industry . Since 2020 , the brand has raised nearly $ 20,000 for women ’ s causes via the release of three benefit barrels , with 100 % of proceeds contributed to partnering charities . The 2021 barrel was selected by an all-woman panel of influencers from around the country , with sales benefiting Al Otro Lado and Black Mamas Matter Alliance .

Westward Whiskey was also selected as the first distillery to host the STE- PUP Foundation , the American Craft Spirits Association ’ s comprehensive internship program dedicated to creating more gender and racial diversity within distilled spirits .

The brand is currently working with Erin Lee , who parlayed her experience in fashion and management into a passion for whiskey .

MFHA Celebrates 25 Years

The Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance has promoted opportunities for people of color in the restaurant , foodservice and lodging industries since 1996 . Since its founding , the MFHA ’ s mission has evolved from advocating for career opportunities for people of color , to building Robert Gifford cultural intelligence for companies and organizations across the country .

People of racial and ethnic minorities represent approximately 47 % of the restaurant workforce , and 4 in 10 restaurant managers / supervisors are minorities . As part of a 25th anniversary celebration this year , industry leaders gathered in Chicago at the National Restaurant Association headquarters to recognize the MFHA ’ s milestones and announce future goals .

Max Langenkamp , chief diversity officer and SVP of HR at Cintas was named incoming chair of the MFHA Board of Advisors . President and founder Gerry Fernandez highlighted joint initiatives with the NRA Educational Foundation , including :

Pathways to Black Franchise Ownership : A new initiative sponsored by PepsiCo designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs and create 100 black-owned restaurants by the end of 2023 .

Roadmap to Inclusion : Best practices guidance for integrating DEI into a successful business strategy that ’ s sustainable and measurable .

DEI Industry Survey : MFHA ’ s first comprehensive survey since 2014 , conducted in partnership with Cornell University .

“ Congratulations to Gerry and the MFHA team for 25 years of success and integral work improving diversity , equity and inclusion and cultural competency in our industry ,” said NRAEF President Rob Gifford in a release . “ We ’ re proud to collaborate with MFHA as we continue the ongoing work to rebuild our industry and set even higher standards for DEI from entry-level to the C-Suite .

2022 Beverage Industry Inclusion 5