Embracing Our Differences Holds Annual Luncheon
By C.S. Howard
Embracing Our Differences held its Annual Luncheon on Friday, February 21st at The Ora, Sarasota’s premier event venue. This year’s theme – A Celebration of Kindness, Respect and Inclusion – is in keeping with its mission to inspire kindness and respect through arts and education. Embracing Our Differences (EOD) celebrates individuality and shared humanity through their annual exhibitions which feature thought-provoking artwork from around the world, sparking conversations about understanding and acceptance.
“The Embracing our Differences Luncheon was a great success, attended by almost 600 people who affirmed our message of the importance of embracing kindness and respect,” said Judge Charles E. Williams, board chair.
“The message we want to convey is simple – we want all people to be accepted for who they are and for our students to learn at an early age that we must embrace our differences and treat each other with dignity.”
Judge Williams opened the program with a welcome and introductions, followed by remarks from Jon Thaxton of Gulf Coast Community Foundation, presenting sponsor.
Highlights of the education program was given by Patrick Arthur Jackson, EOD vice president. The highlight of the luncheon was the student perspectives given by Bryson Day, a student at Venice High School, and Isabella Cicala from Sarasota High School. The Educator Spotlight featured Dr. Brooks Tracey of Sarasota Middle School.
Sarah Wertheimer, EOD’s President and CEO, ended the luncheon with EOD highlights and updates. Wertheimer oversees the creation and implementation of programs that annually impact over 400,000 adults and children. “Our mission—fostering compassion and understanding—feels more important than ever in today’s polarized world,” says Wertheimer. “This year’s exhibition reflects that mission through every piece of art and every quote, showing us that our differences are a source of strength. These artists and writers fill us with stories that remind us of our shared humanity. In a time of division, their voices urge us to pause and listen, bringing us together as one human family. That’s the spirit behind Embracing Our Differences.”
Founded in 2004, EOD is a nonprofit that champions respect, kindness, and understanding through the power of art and education. Every year, EOD presents an outdoor exhibition featuring 50 billboardsized works of art paired with thought-provoking quotes. Since it began, nearly 5 million visitors have experienced the exhibition, creating a public space for reflection and dialogue on acceptance. The 2025 exhibition is currently on display at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park through April 13.
