On October 1, 2020, Utah Business and Living Color Utah presented the second-annual Living Color Gala—a night to honor those individuals who have made it their mission to attract and foster diversity and inclusion initiatives throughout the state of Utah. The nominees were recommended and voted upon by members of the state’s six diverse chambers of commerce and Utah Business.
Gail Miller was among the 22 individuals, businesses, and organizations honored at the event. She was selected as a leader in the area of diversity and supporting community change.
Thurl Bailey, former Utah Jazz player and current pre- and post-game broadcast analyst, accepted the award on Gail’s behalf. Thurl shared his experience of coming from a very diverse community to a very different one when he joined the Utah Jazz in 1983. It was so different that he wasn’t sure he wanted to stay. During his second season with the team, Larry and Gail Miller became part owners of the team – and full owners a year later. Their caring natures and their involvement with the team and with him personally changed his heart and his desire to stay. He encouraged the audience to model the example set by the Millers in being welcoming, focused on the community, and committed to making a difference. For more than three decades, Thurl has contributed significantly to the Jazz, the LHM Group, and the community at large.
Living Color Utah is a project commissioned by Salt Lake City Corporation to provide resources for Utah’s diverse population. The project is supported by the state’s ethnic chambers with the goal of supporting diverse communities at Utah organizations.