The Women of Color Celebration and Luncheon was launched in 1992 as a response to Miami's continuing efforts to improve the living, learning and working environment for multicultural students and employees. It was conceived by a member of Miami's residence life staff, supported by the student affairs division and implemented with the assistance of several student affairs colleagues. The event grew in popularity through 1997. Following a four-year hiatus, the event was revived in 2001.

The objectives of the event are to:

• Raise awareness of and celebrate the accomplishments of women of color
• Inspire attendees, particularly multicultural students, faculty and staff
• Model a university-wide collaborative planning process
• Launch the university's annual celebration of women's history month
• Provide attendees with the opportunity to hear, first-hand, the stories of multicultural students who attend the university
• Honor the extraordinary contributions of multicultural students, faculty, staff and community members