DEAR FRIENDS,
Welcome to 2018!! Our Chamber had an extremely successful launch in 2017 with M & T Bank leading the way to sponsor our Purposeful Millionaire event followed by PNC’s Transgender in the Workplace panel. We have asked for your feedback and you will see a variety of programs in 2018 that provide rich business and educational opportunities.
I invite you to get your business certified which will open more doors to corporate contracts. Our sponsors want to find outstanding LGBT+ vendors and this certification places us closer to the front of the line for consideration. The certification fee of $400 is waived when you join the Chamber. It’s worth every penny.
The year 2017 brought a change in White House Administration, tragedy in our country, and the revelation that it was time to interrupt harassment and abuse exposed through the #metoo movement.
Because of the events in 2017, so many of us have experienced “aha moments” and made our voices heard. Many more people, came forth with gusto to say NO MORE to marginalizing behaviors. We gave voice to the repression that we have felt for decades. We are seeing the results from our courageous voices through public figures stepping down, change in corporate best practices and exposing those who fan the flames of hatred. We still have a long way to go but the shift we saw from our push-back is inspiring.
It continues to be our time to growth our presence as our full-selves and accept nothing less than a level playing field when vying for business. I’m excited for the LGBT+ business community because we are changing the conversation with wisdom and inspiration. Our voices matter and it is through the Maryland LGBT Chamber of Commerce that we will lead the way with harmonious voices to ensure positive change. Come join us and may our proud voices continue to forge inclusive paths.
Best regards,
Betsy Cerulo
President, Maryland LGBT Chamber of Commerce
[email protected]
Our Mission and Vision for the MDLGBT Chamber of Commerce
OUR MISSION
The Maryland LGBT Chamber of Commerce empowers and promotes the economic well-being of the LGBT+ community in the Maryland marketplace through education, networking and advocacy. As a vital link between government, businesses and our allies, the Chamber facilitates equality, prosperity and inclusivity for all members of the LGBT+ community.
OUR VISION
Our vision is to be the leader in the economic fabric of Maryland, working to unite LGBT+ professionals and businesses with business, government and community entities for the common goals of inclusivity, fairness and prosperity for all of our members in their business endeavors.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Betsy Cerulo President/Co-Founder | Dave Imre Executive Advisory Board Chair/Co-Founder | Adler Archer Vice President | Winnie Hull Treasurer | David Pierson Secretary | Joan Cox Member-at-large | Tom Koerber Member-at-large | Wil Graham Member-at-Large/Western Maryland | Anita McMullin Member-at-Large/Annapolis & East | April Rancier, Lee Johnson-Lowe & Christopher Vaeth Program Committee Chairs | Ben Guthorn & Anita McMullin Membership/Development Committee Chairs | Winnie Hull Administration Committee | Joan Cox & Dave Pierson Marketing Committee
Many, many thanks to all the volunteers who have been working hard behind the scenes to build this chamber!