Logo of Diversity Advocacy Alliance with large black letters 'DAA,' a red dot above the 'A's, a curved red line crossing through the letters, and the organization's name in black uppercase text below.

Represent. Amplify. Advance.

A diverse group of five women and one man having a lively discussion on stage at a panel discussion during an event at Universal Explore Home Learning Center, with an audience in front.

The Diversity Advocacy Alliance (DAA) is dedicated to advancing, improving, and supporting diversity by cultivating a welcoming environment and expanding the representation of the community of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (“BIPOC”) within the design industry and its leadership. Our mission is to amplify these voices, implement equitable practices and policies, and demonstrate authentic representation within our community. We welcome everyone who wants to be a part of this work and our community.

Welcome

A man with glasses wearing a white shirt and a dark patterned blazer, standing with arms crossed in an indoor setting with a large window and curtains in the background.

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

I extend to you a warm and enthusiastic welcome to the Diversity Advocacy Alliance. At the heart of our community lies a powerful commitment: to advance, improve, and support diversity by cultivating a welcoming environment and expanding the representation of the BIPOC community within the design and home furnishings industries and leadership. We are community dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices, fostering equitable practices and policies, and embodying authentic representation across our industry. These efforts are critical as we foster a community and marketplace that celebrates inclusion in all its forms. This year, I feel that the work we are doing is more important than ever. Here’s what you can look forward to as part of our DAA community:

1. A culture of belonging, where designers, professionals, and students from BIPOC and other underrepresented backgrounds are valued, heard, and integrated through various initiatives.

2. Opportunities for meaningful growth and development through our educational initiatives, mentoring sessions, and other programming.

3. Broader influence, as the Alliance uplifts changemakers through our awards program and explores ways to expand the conversation to every corner of our industry.

As Chair, I invite you to explore how you might engage—whether by attending our panels, nominating a deserving colleague for an award, subscribing to our newsletter, supporting through event sponsorships, or joining our committee to help chart the future. Together, we are reshaping a vibrant, equitable, and inclusive design and home furnishings industry.

Warmest regards,

Benjamin Johnston

Chair, Diversity Advocacy Alliance

Our Programming

A woman wearing a bright green headscarf, large black glasses, and colorful tropical-patterned clothing, smiling and engaging with others at a social event.

Awards Program

Each fall, the DAA recognizes individuals and organizations whose leadership, mentorship, and service are helping shape a more inclusive design industry. Our awards celebrate those who create welcoming environments, invest in the next generation of creatives, and champion positive change throughout our profession.

Learn More

Explore some of the important ways that you can get involved with the DAA.

A group of diverse women and men sitting on tiered wooden seats at a conference, laughing and smiling, with some taking photos and others engaging in conversation, inside a modern venue with a large

Market Events

The DAA produces engaging programming throughout the year in partnership with major design and home furnishings markets. Through panel discussions, workshops, and conversations, we elevate diverse voices, inspire creativity, and help mentor the next generation of industry leaders.

Learn More
Two women standing in front of a red poster that reads 'Social Responsibility Award'. They are smiling and appear to be at an event. The woman on the left has long blonde hair and is wearing a black blazer over a leopard print dress. The woman on the right has long dark hair, large hoop earrings, and is wearing a colorful top and a dark skirt with pink panther print.

Gatherings

The DAA brings our community together through networking events, cocktail receptions, volunteer initiatives, and other gatherings that foster authentic relationships. These experiences strengthen connections, encourage collaboration, and build a more welcoming and inclusive design industry.

Learn More

Video Content

Explore this video compilation from past DAA initiatives and our Portraits of Success video series.

Aligned for Change at
High Point Market and Beyond

Explore how the Diversity Advocacy Alliance (DAA) is championing inclusion and change — not only during the bustling weeks of High Point Market, but far beyond.

Insider Access Experience

Great design empowers designers and communities—both on a local and global scale. Hear more about this ever-evolving program offered every Spring at HPMKT.

Meet DuVäl Reynolds

Discovering Identity Through Design

Taking the time to shape your identity, both personally and professionally, will help you achieve your full potential. Tune in as trailblazing interior designer DuVäl Reynolds talks about how his personal journey equipped him to build (and sustain) his self-made business.

View Our Video Channel

Follow Us On Social

Three women sitting on stage at a panel discussion, with microphones in their hands, in front of a backdrop with the letters 'M'.
Four people sitting on high chairs on a stage, engaged in a panel discussion or presentation in a modern conference room.
A panel discussion with four women seated in front of an audience. One woman is speaking with her hands, and the others are listening. The background includes a television screen, a shelf with decorative items, and an orchid plant. Audience members are sitting on white chairs.