Today we’d like to introduce you to Kellie Mckee.
Hi kellie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Founded in 2024, when our local City Council decided to dismantle the Rowlett Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission, DEI Community Project began as a small group of inspired individuals who wanted to make a positive impact in our community.
I turned my kitchen table into a conference table and moved us into the boardroom where we formed this nonprofit corporation to fill the void left behind in the community. Through this nonprofit, we serve Rowlett and the surrounding areas.
We offer a variety of activities and events for our members, including volunteer opportunities, social gatherings, and educational workshops. Our goal is to provide something for everyone and create a sense of belonging for all.
We have hosted monthly meetings, book clubs, a movie series, two Pride Events, and participated in numerous community events throughout the metroplex advancing our mission of diversity, equity, & inclusion advocacy in North Texas.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Well, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives around the nation have faced significant setbacks due to political pressure, legal challenges, and backlash leading many corporations and universities to scale back, rebrand, or eliminate programs, though some efforts continue under different names or focus on broader accessibility/socioeconomic factors. This trend accelerated in 2024-2025, with amplified federal actions taking center stage and public scrutiny prompting major companies like Walmart and Ford to adjust their DEI commitments.
Though we are slowly seeing companies and organizations finding ways to implement DEI in other ways without the labels. They understand the importance of the work and they understand the value that it brings.
I am confident that people and organizations will continue to find innovative ways to incorporate DEI initiatives into their culture, even if they aren’t calling it DEI.
As you know, we’re big fans of Diversity Equity & Inclusion Community Network, Inc. dba DEI Community Project. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At DEI Community Project, we strive to create a welcoming community that promotes diversity, equity, inclusivity, and respect for all. Our mission is to provide a space where members can connect, learn, and grow together.
The DEI Community Project exists to engage, educate, and enhance our local community by celebrating and fostering diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I have been lucky enough to have had several mentors throughout my working life. People that I admire who are genuinely eager to share their knowledge and give of their time.
I do believe that it helps that we have basic values and beliefs in common. The things that we believe in and the work that we do motivates us to give back and to help others who may not have the opportunities and chances that we have had or that we would like to have had.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://deicommunityproject.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deicommunityproject/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DEICommunityProject
