Boma Jewelry Takes a Holistic Approach to Diversity & Inclusion
As an industry leader in the sustainable fashion space, Boma Jewelry is taking a well-rounded approach to diversity and inclusion through a variety of targeted initiatives that reflect an on-going commitment to Boma’s core values.
Acknowledging the need for systematic change in the fashion industry, Boma Jewelry, a Seattle-based jewelry brand celebrating 40 years in business, has committed to a wide range of strategic efforts in support of on-going diversity and inclusion. These commitments impact all aspects of the business from talent acquisition to influencer campaigns, on-going mentorship, and grant programs that leverage Boma’s vast network of resources in an effort to empower communities of color and provide opportunities for Black jewelry designers.
Originally established in June of 2020, the Boma Jewelry grant program was created in direct response to the wave of social justice movements happening in Seattle and across the country. By leveraging resources at a company level, Boma was able to provide grant recipients with a variety of support including design mentorship, sampling, production opportunities, and industry insight. Since then, the grant program has continued to grow and evolve into a mentorship and business incubator with participation from designers in New York, Chicago, and London. “While the jewelry industry is a source of immense creativity and innovation, a large part of the industry is grounded in sameness,” says CEO Suzanne Vetillart, “One way that we have sought to resist this sameness is by being a vertical company that owns our production facilities and supports the work of other brands. From our origins, we have always been invested and dedicated to building and supporting the brands we partner with.”
Starting this month, applications from BIPOC jewelry designers will be accepted for the second round of grant funding from Boma Jewelry. Up to 3 applicants will be chosen to participate in the spring program. Grant winners will be announced in early March.
“We recognize that we have resources many Black jewelry designers have never had access to. Our grant program will help create new opportunities and contribute to making a lasting, positive impact for our grant recipients and partners.”
- Suzanne Vetillart, CEO of Boma Jewelry
Boma Jewelry has also announced the release of a new “This Matters” collection of sustainable jewelry in partnership with The Cura Co. The collection of gender-inclusive styles is designed to recognize and redistribute funding for community organizations in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. The collection includes a BLM “Power Pendant” featuring a raised fist, a “Say Their Names” slogan necklace, and a raised fist “Power Signet” ring. All items are ethically-made at Boma’s family-owned factory using sustainably-sourced materials and recycled metals. 100% of the profits from the collection will be directly donated to the Black College Matters fund by Save Your VI, a non-profit organization dedicated to advocacy for Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
In addition to on-going initiatives, Boma Jewelry is committed to celebrating its customer base through diverse imagery on the brand website and across social media and marketing platforms. Embracing diversity and inclusion as a brand will also be a focus for influencer campaigns, events, and community partnerships.
Already a leader in the fashion industry when it comes to sustainability, Boma Jewelry is committed to being an inclusive, anti-racist company that makes the world a better place through its work. For more information, visit bomajewelry.com.
Related Links:
Boma Jewelry Grant Program - Now accepting 2021 applicants
About Boma Jewelry
Boma Jewelry is a leading social purpose corporation that is focused on providing unparalleled quality and transparency for its customers and partners. Through its vertically-integrated supply chain and 40 years of experience creating fine jewelry and cultivating artisanship among its employees, Boma demonstrates that being profitable, respectful of its people, and conscious of its environmental impact is achievable when long-term goals are prioritized over short-term gains.
