Local organizers aim to uplift inclusivity in the Lawrence holiday market scene with a new event that will unite more than 100 diverse vendors.
“The Inclusive Holiday Market is more than just a shopping experience,” the Facebook event page says. “It’s a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. We are proud to showcase a variety of vendors from different backgrounds and cultures, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and represented.”
Moniqué Mercurio (Ohlone Costanoan Esselen Nation), Lawrence artist and organizer, said she’s witnessed the need for authentic spaces where BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) community members can showcase their art during the holidays. She also feels community members want more holiday markets where they can support BIPOC vendors and see themselves represented.
Mercurio, owner of MercTribe Designs, partnered up with Taylor Overton and Black:30 to get to planning.
They hoped their collaboration would be a recipe for uplifting local BIPOC artists and business owners. Art Love Collective, where Mercurio serves as the community outreach director, is the event sponsor.
The entire Lied Center is reserved for the event, Mercurio said. She also said accessibility for vendors was a high priority for organizers. Those selling their work at the market do not pay any vendor fees, and tables and supplies will be provided for free.
Attendees will be able to shop crafts, jewelry, holiday gifts, ledger artwork and more in the midst of holiday music and festive scenes. There will also be food and drink vendors throughout the day.
The Inclusive Holiday Market is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16 at the Lied Center of Kansas, 1600 Stewart Drive. Admission is free.
Visit MercTribe Designs’ Instagram page, @merctribe_designs, to see lists of vendors that are set to be there. Visit the Facebook event page for more information.
Visit this link and click the green bookmark icon to add this event to your Google, Apple, Outlook or other calendar.
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Maya Hodison (she/her), equity reporter, can be reached at mhodison (at) lawrencekstimes (dot) com. Read more of her work for the Times here. Check out her staff bio here.
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