Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Awards

The Diversity and Cultural Enrichment Award recognizes and celebrates individuals, organizations, businesses or groups that help foster understanding, appreciation and celebration of the diverse cultures, identities and experiences that enrich the Oak Park community. This award honors efforts that promote cultural awareness, encourage cross-cultural connections and contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive community.

Who: Individuals, organizations, businesses, institutions or community groups that contribute to cultural enrichment and diversity within the Oak Park community.

What: Demonstrated efforts to celebrate, preserve, share or elevate diverse cultures, identities, traditions, perspectives, or experiences.

Why: Oak Park's strength lies in the diversity of its residents and the many cultures, backgrounds and experiences that shape the community. This award recognizes those who help create opportunities for learning, connection, appreciation and cultural exchange.

How: Know an individual or organization helping to celebrate and strengthen Oak Park's diverse community? Submit a nomination using the online nomination form by October 31.

Eligibility Requirements

• Nominee may be an individual, business, nonprofit organization, institution or community group.
• Nominee must live, work, operate, volunteer, serve or have demonstrated a meaningful impact within Oak Park.
• Nominee must have demonstrated contributions to cultural enrichment, diversity, education, awareness or community connection during the current or preceding calendar year.
• Self-nominations are not permitted.
• Previous recipients are not eligible for three years following recognition.

Submit a nomination here

The Accessibility and Inclusion Award recognizes and celebrates individuals, organizations, businesses or groups that work to remove barriers and expand opportunities for participation in community life. This award honors efforts that improve accessibility, increase inclusion and help ensure all residents can fully enjoy, engage in and contribute to the Oak Park community.

Who: Individuals, organizations, businesses, institutions or community groups that have advanced accessibility and inclusion within Oak Park.

What: Demonstrated efforts to improve access, remove barriers, increase participation or create more inclusive environments for individuals with visible and invisible disabilities, including physical and mental health disabilities, as well as those facing communication, language, technological, or other accessibility barriers.

Why: A strong community is one where all residents have the opportunity to participate, connect, and thrive. This award recognizes those who have taken meaningful action to make Oak Park more accessible, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone.

How: Know an individual or organization making Oak Park more accessible and inclusive? Submit a nomination using the online nomination form by October 31.

Eligibility Requirements

• Nominee may be an individual, business, nonprofit organization, institution or community group.
• Nominee must live, work, operate, volunteer, serve or have demonstrated a meaningful impact within Oak Park.
• Nominee must have demonstrated efforts to improve accessibility, reduce barriers or expand participation during the current or preceding calendar year.
• Self-nominations are not permitted.
• Previous recipients are not eligible for three years following recognition.

Submit a nomination here

The Belonging and Community Connection Award recognizes and celebrates individuals, organizations, businesses or groups that foster meaningful connections among residents and help create a community where people feel valued, respected and included. This award honors efforts that strengthen relationships, build understanding, and create welcoming spaces where people from all backgrounds can participate and thrive.

Who: Individuals, organizations, businesses, institutions or community groups that foster belonging and strengthen community connections within Oak Park.

What: Demonstrated efforts to create welcoming environments, build relationships across diverse communities, encourage participation or foster a sense of belonging among residents.

Why: Strong communities are built on meaningful relationships and a shared sense of belonging. This award recognizes those who help bring people together, create opportunities for connection and contribute to a more welcoming and inclusive Oak Park.

How: Know an individual or organization helping to build a stronger sense of belonging and community connection in Oak Park? Submit a nomination using the online nomination form by October 31.

Eligibility Requirements

• Nominee may be an individual, business, nonprofit organization, institution or community group.
• Nominee must live, work, operate, volunteer, serve or have demonstrated a meaningful impact within Oak Park.
• Nominee must have demonstrated efforts to foster belonging, strengthen community connections or increase resident engagement during the current or preceding calendar year.
• Self-nominations are not permitted.
• Previous recipients are not eligible for three years following recognition.

Submit a nomination here