On September 9, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection hosted its annual New Jersey Belonging Day, in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs, the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles, the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, the New Jersey Civil Service Commission, and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. This event brought together employees across these agencies to celebrate the diversity of our state through food, activities, music and more.

Commissioner Vincent Solomeno spoke at the event and remarked on the importance of celebrating diversity in the state of New Jersey, as well as embracing unity much like our country did in the days following September 11, 2001. In the wake of the 25th anniversary of that day, events like these remind us of the importance of coming together, celebrating our differences, and connecting with one another. For more photos of the event, click here.