Diversity & Inclusion

The Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival reflects traditions reaching back to the domestication of sheep some 10,000 years ago. Over thousands of years of human history people all over the world have shepherded and selectively bred sheep for various desired characteristics for food and fiber. Their work, their vision, their ingenuity and appreciation of the utility and aesthetic qualities of sheep and wool are the foundation of the spectacular array of breeds, and types and uses of wool, and technologies for working with wool, that we gather here to enjoy together. The festival connects us to this long history, to its diverse geographical and cultural roots, and to each other when we gather to immerse ourselves in sheep and wool. To us, this reflects an inherent inclusivity that is so deeply woven into the fabric of the Festival that perhaps we forget to say it.

The festival connects us to this long history, to its diverse geographical and cultural roots, and to each other when we gather to immerse ourselves in sheep and wool.

So, with open hearts we welcome all – shepherds, vendors, fiber artists, sheep and wool equipment crafters, festival visitors and volunteers. Whoever you are, wherever you are from, whatever your heritage, your culture, your beliefs, or your lifestyle, we welcome you and join you in this immersion into sheep and wool, and into our celebration of a shared human history.