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Karuana Gatimu
Karuana Gatimu
Principal Manager, Microsoft 365 Customer Advocacy Group | Technical Storyteller | Writer | Producer | Advocate | Great Cook
Published May 1, 2023
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In my 20’s and early 30’s I probably attended 20+ White Parties.A staple in the LGBTQ+ community they have always meant celebration, ushering in pool party weather and honoring a strong community.White Parties were started in that community as fundraisers for HIV/AIDS related charities. They always signified a safe place where people could gather and be themselves.
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People came together – often after enduring unimaginable loss – to celebrate their resiliency and the ability to make change, together.
As we planned our Microsoft presence at Microsoft 365 Conference this spring we decided that it was time to start a new tradition.I suggested why not have a White Party?Why not honor this community – its resilience and unflappable optimism in the face of great change – and dress up a little?
When I started attending White Parties I had no idea they were actually a descendant of Diner en Blanc, originating in France. These gatherings started in 1988 are a chic picnic in a unique public location where all attendees wear white, bring their own tables & chairs and celebrate the coming of spring. Normally, the location isn't revealed until just before the gathering, introducing a little fun and intrigue. In both types of gatherings all are welcome, equal and able to enjoy a unique celebration together. Diner en Blanc now happens each year around the world and people are celebrating coming back together again in large groups.
A White Party does not speak to race or ethnicity in ANY way.In fact quite the opposite.The theme speaks to a unifying quality across all humanity – the need for connection, especially in trying times.Though the Covid pandemic has receded to some extent we are all still dealing with its aftermath, economically and emotionally.I believe community connections can be a salve to the collective trauma we have all experienced and are, in one way or another, still processing.
Our party will be different than those you may find online if you look.It is after all a Microsoft sponsored professional event and will abide by our Code of Conduct.BUT, we can enjoy the amazing music spun by our own MJ DePalma as House of Gusto, fun games and good food out by the pool and have a generally smashing time.
So, if you were wondering, “What’s a White Party?” now you know.It is a set of wonderful memories from my younger days whose message is still as potent and meaningful as ever.This message of embracing diversity, unity and celebration has and will always represent the fact that we are better and stronger together, than we ever are apart.There is always more that connects us in our humanity than divides us.I can’t wait to see you all there!
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7 Comments
Sommer B.
1mo
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So well said!
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Jackie Muller, LCSWR
Clinical Director and founder of Dynamic Intervention Wellness Solutions
9mo
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I proposed this in a business meeting today and was immediately confronted by pushback. So I took to the internet to find the history that I already knew from reading a book called "The Art of Gathering" by Priya Parker. I really appreciate you for providing this quick history. I will be sharing for sure and having the White Party as planned :).
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MJ DePalma
Business with Purpose | Sustainability Change Agent | Galvanizer | Systems Thinker | Culture Creator | Principal at Microsoft
1y
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Great article! House of Gusto was happy to share the beats!
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Chris Bortlik
Microsoft Principal Technical Architect, Keynote Speaker, Author, Mentor, Coach, Leader, 3X Platinum/Gold Club Award Winner
1y
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Thanks for sharing the background and history. Very informative and helpful! Looking forward to this and being with the community again this week.
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Dan Rey
people developer | have you tried turning it off and on again? | multi-lingual trainer (i speak your favorite operating system) | microsoft mvp m365 apps and services | #IAmRemarkable facilitator | microsoft alumni club
1y
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Thanks for sharing Karuana Gatimu - I’ve never attended one (and probably have the top and shoes covered, but I don’t know if I still have white shorts (and I know I don’t have white pants!)
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