Black History Month marks a significant moment to celebrate Black leaders in the business events industries as well as spotlight the strategies, experiences, and insights of Black industry professionals—especially during a time when attacks on DEI programs are becoming more prominent across various business sectors. 

Eric Kincaid, Vice President, Sales, Choose Chicago, is a travel and tourism industry leader who not only oversees the city’s convention market sales—he’s also a DEI advocate who makes it his mission to celebrate Chicago’s diverse history and offerings, as well as infuse a culture of inclusivity throughout the organization. 

Kincaid shared with Corporate Event News how he and his team are celebrating Black History Month this year, his advice for the next generation of Black event industry leaders, and his ideal day off in Chicago. 

How are you and your team at Choose Chicago celebrating Black History Month this year?

At Choose Chicago, we believe it’s important to celebrate our city’s diverse history throughout the year, especially during Black History Month. To kick off the month, our Interim President and CEO Rich Gamble and Perri Irmer, CEO of the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, were featured on a local morning talk show to promote the museum, local Black-owned businesses, theater, and attractions to support throughout February and beyond.  

Internally, our Choose Compassion Employee Resource Group has organized an educational event, featuring some of our Black female employees. Staff will discuss the film The Six Triple Eight—an untold story of Black American history, specifically Black women and their incredible story of overcoming racism and misogyny during World War II. Externally, we have been working to uplift Black-owned businesses and cultural attractions in Chicago through blog posts, social, and earned media.  

What are your thoughts about the state of DEI in the event industry—particularly when the Trump Administration and other organizations are eliminating their DEI initiatives?

We believe cultural diversity is one of our destination’s greatest strengths and that our inclusivity is fundamental to who we are as a city and an organization. People want to visit big cities precisely because they offer a wide variety of experiences and are welcoming to people from all walks of life. We want event organizers and meeting professionals from all backgrounds to bring their business to Chicago, and we are committed to ensuring that their attendees feel they belong here.  

Furthermore, the Choose Chicago Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm of our organization, spearheads initiatives meant to ensure our city’s tourism and hospitality industry reflects the diversity of our population. We do this by introducing diverse young people to careers in our industry and offering scholarship programs for students from underrepresented communities.

How is your team responding to and addressing the current backlash against DEI?

At Choose Chicago, we are taking every opportunity—including this interview—to reiterate our commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusivity in Chicago’s tourism, events, and hospitality industries. We continue to produce events that highlight diverse-owned businesses in our industry. In mid-April, we will host an inaugural Choose Chicago Partner Diversity Showcase, in partnership with the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (the owners of McCormick Place), to help promote the products and services of our diverse-owned business partners. We also work to attract multicultural meetings and events like the NAACP 127^th convention, confirmed for Chicago in July 2026.  

Additionally, we continue to promote Chicago as a safe and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, and we work to promote our diverse local business partners, communities, and attractions. Through this effort, we hope to signal to residents and potential visitors that Chicago loves you no matter who you are or where you are from.

Why is celebrating diversity in this industry important—and why should it continue—regardless of the current political environment? 

Celebrating diversity in the event industry is not just a moral imperative—it’s a business and economic necessity. Our industry thrives on welcoming people from all backgrounds, cultures, and identities, making inclusivity a cornerstone of success. A diverse and inclusive industry fosters innovation, enhances guest experiences, and strengthens community engagement.

Diversity should remain a priority because it fuels growth, creates opportunities, and reflects the global audience we serve. Representation matters—not only for the travelers who visit our destinations but also for the professionals shaping the industry’s future. When people see themselves reflected in leadership, marketing, and business decisions, it builds trust and fosters deeper connections.

Furthermore, embracing diversity ensures that our workforce remains dynamic, resilient, and competitive. Studies consistently show that diverse teams drive better performance, more creative problem-solving, and higher profitability. As an African American leader in this space, I have seen firsthand the power of inclusion—how it opens doors, empowers communities, and drives economic impact. Continuing to champion diversity means investing in workforce development, supplier diversity, and inclusive policies that expand access to opportunity. It means ensuring that the event industry remains welcoming to all, regardless of political shifts. In doing so, we reinforce our commitment to progress, equity, and sustainable success for generations to come.

What is your advice for the next generation of Black leaders in the event industry?

Own your space, build your network, and never stop advocating for yourself and others. You deserve to be in the rooms where decisions are made. Walk into every meeting, negotiation, or event knowing that your voice, perspective, and leadership are valuable. Confidence is key—trust in your expertise, and don’t be afraid to take up space. 

Relationships are everything in this industry. Surround yourself with mentors, sponsors, and peers who will challenge, support, and elevate you. Seek out industry organizations, attend networking events, and engage with professionals who share your values. Equally important is paying it forward—lift as you climb. 

Representation matters. Whether you’re leading an event, hiring vendors, or making policy decisions, ensure that inclusion is at the forefront. Champion diverse talent, advocate for supplier diversity, and use your influence to create opportunities for others. Change happens when we push beyond comfort zones and demand seats at the table—not just for ourselves, but for the next wave of leaders. Excellence speaks volumes. Stay informed about industry trends, sharpen your skills, and embrace lifelong learning. Understanding financials, contracts, and logistics will set you apart, but so will cultural competency and the ability to curate meaningful, inclusive experiences.

Lean into your community, stay authentic, and remember that every challenge you overcome is paving the way for those who will follow.

What does a typical day off look like for you? What are your favorite restaurants or things to do in your city? 

On a typical day off, you’ll find me hanging out with my pup sons, Elmo and Enzo, at the dog park. I also love catching up with friends over drinks at my neighborhood spots, Norman’s Bistro or Bronzeville Winery. But nothing beats “Summertime Chi”—I’m often soaking in live music and the stunning skyline views at Pier 31. Chicago has so many incredible places to explore, but a few of my go-to favorites include Lexington Betty’s in Pullman, Virtue in Hyde Park, and of course, the unbeatable caramel cake from Brown Sugar Bakery.

What is one surprising quality or hobby you have that most people don’t know? 

I have a deep passion for wine, not just for its flavors but for the history, culture, and craftsmanship behind every bottle. Traveling globally with a close-knit group of friends, I explore renowned wine regions, immersing myself in the art and science of winemaking. Beyond personal enjoyment, I’m dedicated to introducing more African Americans to the world of wine—an industry where our presence has been limited. Through these experiences, I hope to inspire greater appreciation, education, and inclusion within this space.

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