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From Home Furnishing Business

Diversity Market Authority Alliance Opens 2026 Nominations for Awards

June 2, 2026  by Karen Parrish in Business Strategy, Designer Weekly, Industry   

The three award categories are “Open Arms,” “Mentorship,” and “Social Responsibility.”

High Point Market exhibitors eligible for the Open Arms Award are selected based on how well they receive showroom visitors irrespective of their race, gender, or orientation. The nominees in this category also reflect diversity within the company’s employment practices and marketing.

Individuals eligible for the Mentorship Award actively foster growth among established and emerging colleagues. The recipient of this award has a proven track record of providing guidance, support and mentorship to industry professionals from underrepresented backgrounds.

Individuals or companies eligible to receive the Social Responsibility Award are known to act for positive societal change and champion inclusivity beyond High Point Market trade events, through their recognition of diversity’s significance in driving innovation, creativity, and unique perspectives across all business interactions.

"The Diversity Advocacy Alliance Awards exist to shine a light on the individuals and organizations who are doing the real work of building a more inclusive home furnishings industry,” says Ben Johnston, DAA chair and founder and principal of Houston-based interior design firm Benjamin Johnston Design. “We are proud to open nominations for the Open Arms, Mentorship, and Social Responsibility Awards and encourage our entire community to take a moment to recognize those who exemplify a true commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

Additional details regarding the awards criteria are located on the Diversity Advocacy Alliance page of the High Point Market website.

The award recipients will be honored at an event taking place during Fall Market in October.