At last year’s Truth & Joy event, an all-day celebration of diversity hosted by the Martha’s Vineyard Diversity Coalition (MVDC), more than 500 Islanders and visitors gathered together over food, art and music. The inaugural event reflected the many cultures of the Vineyard and when it ended, lead organizer Chrissie Laury instantly began planning the next one.

This year’s celebration takes place Saturday, July 22 at the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with more than 20 art, food and retail vendors, and several live musical performances.

“When I heard that people really wanted there to be another one... I just started thinking about the ways that we could improve it and evolve for this year,” said Ms. Laury. “The best part is seeing people come together to have a great time despite their differences.”

The Diversity Coalition was formed in 2019 and collaborates with Island organizations to promote racial justice and inclusion. It conducts both group and one on one equity workshops and consultations, and works closely with Island schools to develop diversity-focused educational programs.

Ms. Laury said that Truth & Joy is an opportunity for Islanders to learn about each others’ cultures, religions and histories, and to acknowledge the community’s ongoing efforts to eradicate racism.

“One of things that I’m hoping to say through this event is that many of us are different skin tones, we come from different religions, we come from different cultural backgrounds, but we are able to celebrate that,” she said.

In addition to an all-day vendor marketplace, there will be performances by gospel singer Theresa Thomason, composer Walter Robinson, students from the Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School and more.

This year, the NAACP of Martha’s Vineyard, MVY Radio, MVTV and other Island groups are sponsoring the event. Ms. Laury said that thanks to their helping hands, Truth & Joy is going to be bigger and more festive than ever. For more information about Truth & Joy and the MVDC, visit eventbrite.com and search Truth & Joy 2023.