HOUSTON, TX (October 21, 2020) – The Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the British Consulate General in Houston in an online and historic signing event highlighting the collaboration between the two entities.  The MoU was officially signed during LGBTQ History Month.

The MoU builds upon the Chamber’s commitment to strategic collaborations with the goal of creating economic opportunity for the LGBTQ+ business community.  The MOU outlines areas focused on economic collaboration and inclusion including support of LGBTQ+ UK entrepreneurs. 

“When we launched the Chamber, we committed to five key strategic focus area including collaborations & partnerships.  We fully understand the power of collaboration to build community and create economic opportunity and bridges of understanding for the LGBTQ community,” said Tammi Wallace, Co-Founder and President & CEO of the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce.  “The Chamber is committed to supporting UK LGBTQ business owners to help them not only succeed but also to thrive in our great city, region and state.”

The formal collaboration creates intentional and purposeful work between the Consulate and the Chamber to raise the profile of the LGBTQ+ business community and recognizes the positive impact of the members of the LGBTQ+ UK entrepreneurs as part of the local, regional and statewide economy.

“I am extremely proud to sign the MoU between the Houston British Consulate and the LGBT Chamber today. This signing demonstrates the British Consulate’s commitment to even greater links with the LGBTQ community in the Greater Houston region. It is also a reflection of diversity and inclusion as one of our core values,” said Consul General Richard Hyde. 

During the signing ceremony, Consul General Hyde shared very personal and moving remarks about his own journey in terms of LGBTQ inclusion. “The world is increasingly diverse, and it is essential for the workforce to reflect a broad range of different people,” said Consul General Hyde. “We pledge to work together with the Chamber to support and enhance business relations, business exchanges, community outreach, and cultural activities. The British Consulate in Houston has long been an ally of the LGBTQ community and we are excited to further enhance this relationship.”

The Chamber appreciates the leadership of Consul General Hyde and the commitment to LGBTQ inclusion and collaboration on behalf of the British Consul General in Houston.  This historic signing marks the second Chamber collaboration with a consulate and officially adds the British Consulate General to the list of the Chamber’s international collaboration partners.

Link to Virtual Signing Ceremony Recording

The full Memorandum of Understanding can be reviewed here.  

About the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce

Established in February 2016, the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to accelerate economic opportunity for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer + (LGBTQ+) business community through a strong network of business allies, innovative programs, strategic partnerships and advance policies that foster economic inclusion and equality.

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