The Eureka Effect

Alright, let's get real for a second. Diversity (ahem!) it’s a big, complicated, sometimes messy topic. For some, it’s a no-brainer; for others, it’s a struggle, a challenge, maybe even uncomfortable. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be.

Let’s talk Arkansas. More specifically, let’s talk about the recent seismic shift in how diversity and inclusion are being handled at the state level. In early 2023, the Arkansas Senate passed a bill lumping drag performances into the same category as strip clubs and adult theaters. It was a move that sparked outrage, fear, and a whole lot of heated conversations. But then (thankfully) the House stepped in and struck drag from the bill.

Crisis averted.

But that moment of fear?

That’s worth paying attention to. It got me thinking, and when I start thinking, well, you know what happens ... I write.

So, here we are!

Diversity and inclusion aren’t new battlegrounds and while we’re seeing some progress in leadership, most of America’s boardrooms still look overwhelmingly straight, white, and male. That’s just the truth.

Meanwhile, in Eureka Springs...

Here in our little Ozark haven, we’re not immune to the same hurdles. When state legislation threatens inclusion, it affects us, too.

But here’s what makes Eureka Springs different, we don’t just talk about diversity; we live it.

In fact, we celebrate it. Two times a year, our town organizes diversity-focused weekends in the spring, and fall. Why? Because we understand that real unity isn’t about sameness, it’s about embracing the full spectrum of ALL human experiences. ALL!

It’s about choosing inclusion, not just tolerating it.

The Truth About Diversity

Now, let’s be honest. Diversity isn’t always comfortable. The reason for this is because it's different. It's different than you are, and it calls for a shift in mindset, in heart, mind, soul and in the evolutionary leap that people have had to take time and time again decade after decade since humans have walked the earth.

i.e. those people over there are human slaves ... to ... human slavery is inhumane, and it doesn't exist anymore, by law.

Diversity can create friction, miscommunication, and, sometimes, conflict.

But the upside?

It makes us better. It makes us think. It pushes us forward.

I'll say that again for the people sitting in the seats in the back . . .

It pushes us forward.

And, let's face it, that's the only direction we are all headed.

Research backs this up. Studies show that diverse environments:

• Drive innovation

• Attract top talent

• Boost customer engagement

• Enhance problem-solving

• Spark creativity

• Foster stronger, more connected communities

Eureka Springs, in particular, thrives because of its diversity. Our artists, musicians, business owners, bakers, and creative minds fuel this town’s energy. And every single one of them brings something unique to the table.

The Power of Informational Diversity

The HR Director in me says, now let’s take this to the workplace. When you put people from different backgrounds together ... different races, genders, sexual orientations, belief systems ... you get what we in HR call "informational diversity." And that, my friends, is where the magic happens.

Studies prove it. Organizations that prioritize inclusion see real financial gains, greater innovation, stronger employee engagement, and better business outcomes. Want proof?

Professor Orlando Richard

Look at the research done by Professor Orlando Richard at the University of Texas at Dallas. His study found that racially diverse leadership teams in innovation-focused companies significantly outperformed their non-diverse counterparts.

"Diversity isn’t just a moral stance. It’s smart business." /John-Michael Scurio

If you’ve ever visited Eureka Springs, you’ve felt it.

People often say something just 'clicks' inside them when they’re here. They find a kind of magic-a melting pot of ideas, cultures, and experiences that you don’t see everywhere.

I often say that "one visit is all it will take for you to feel that hard-to-explain, magical tug on your soul - connecting you to this corner of the world. Nowadays, it remains to be said that the rejuvenating spring waters that continue to flow below the downtown Historic District and the surrounding Historic Loop continue to emit these mystical, magical energies that tug at your soul, ground you and connect you."

We don’t just talk about inclusion in Eureka Springs. We walk it, live it, breathe it. Every single day. We volunteer, we organize, we build, we participate.

In Eureka, we ARE the change we want to see in the world.

Diversity is not about checking a box. It’s about creating a world that thrives on difference. And here in Eureka Springs? That’s exactly what we do.

Happy Spring Diversity Weekend, April 4, 2025! ❤️

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For information about ALL of our Diversity Weekend Celebrations, which welcomes people from ALL walks of life, check out the website: www.outineureka.org