Running Industry Diversity Coalition

THE COOKOUT, hosted by the RIDC, is a powerful program that extends a warm welcome to all Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, along with our dedicated allies committed to advancing the RIDC mission. An invitation to THE COOKOUT signifies not just a seat at our table, but a valued place within our community and family. This impactful program united running industry employees and local communities in a shared commitment to driving the mission of the RIDC forward, resulting in strengthened partnerships, increased community engagement, and network connections (or reconnections).

We know that achieving racial justice is a marathon, not a sprint, and to effect real change, we must fully understand our starting line. As part of our five-year strategic plan, we partnered with Bentley University to establish quantitative and qualitative baseline measures for racial diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the running industry, focusing on employment, accessibility, inclusion, and belonging. This partnership has already led to the identification of key areas for improvement, the development of targeted initiatives, and measurable metrics and questions for the industry.