We write this statement on the weekend before Pride month officially starts and ending a week of tremendous racial injustice with the death of George Floyd. The irony is not lost on us that considering the protests and riots we are seeing and that of the historical Stonewall riots 51 years ago. Our community understands what it means to speak out about inequities and discrimination and to deny those that would say that our lives don't matter.

However, systemic racism is pervasive in our country and as an organization focused on economic inclusion, we recognize the tremendous costs of systemic discrimination, particularly to communities of color, and especially the African American community. We see this systemic racism play out in the lives of LGBTQ business owners, especially those who are from communities of color, who are denied equal opportunity and a seat at the "economic opportunity" table.  

George Floyd, Amaud Arbery, Alton Sterling, Breonna Taylor, Christian Cooper, Tamir Rice, Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner, Freddie Gray...and more. Enough is Enough. 

We condemn these senseless killings and acts of violence that are repeatedly directed at the African American community, all communities of color and LGBTQ people. We grieve the loss of George Floyd and so many others who have lost their lives. 

As an organization, our board recognizes the importance of intersectionality and economic inclusion and the power of our collective voices when we unite. We will work to do even more in the months and years ahead, even more intentionally and even more committed. We can and we will.

Tammi Wallace, President & CEO

Jonathan Marrs, Board Chair

Jason Rocha, Vice Chair

Shenice Brown, Treasurer

Tiffany Tosh, Secretary

Jack Berger, Board Member 

Thomas Lopez, Board Member