The economic impact of diversity
A recap of the webinar conversation
Posted on 07/30/2020 by Austin Chamber
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In partnership with
In the aftermath of the “bathroom bill” proposed during the 2017 Texas State legislative session, business and community leaders came together to proactively promote policies of non-discrimination. The Austin Chamber is proud to partner with the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce to host an important conversation on the economic benefits of inclusivity and how we can move towards a more welcoming Texas where y’all means all.
On Wednesday, July 15, Dr. Ray Perryman, President and CEO of The Perryman Group, presented data from a report commissioned by Texas Competes on the economic impacts of statewide non-discrimination protections for the LGBTQ community.
When Texas competes, Texas wins
Texas can avoid major competitive risks – and win investment, business, and talent – by sending a clear and consistent signal that the LGBTQ community is fully welcome here.
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Webinar recording
Rep. González and Rep. Hunter led the discussion about their work on a bi-partisan comprehensive non-discrimination bill that will be filed in the upcoming 87th legislative session. Members from the Central Texas business community also joined us to discuss diversity and the economic importance of nondiscrimination.
Legislative panel
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Representative Jessica González (D)
HD 104, Dallas
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Representative Todd Hunter (R)
HD 32, Corpus Christi
Central Texas State House delegation
Rep. Erin Zwiener
Rep. Celia Israel
Rep. Sheryl Cole
Rep. James Talarico
Rep. Eddie Rodriguez
Rep. Donna Howard
Rep. Vikki Goodwin
Rep. John Bucy
Rep. Gina Hinojosa
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Business leader panel
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Moderator: Will Coombes
Global Head of Design
VISA -
Carla Contreras
Account Executive
Dell Technologies -
Skeeter Miller
Owner
County Line BBQ -
Tom Noonan
CEO
Visit Austin -
Jessica Shortall
Managing Director
Texas Competes -
Deirdre Walsh
Director of Global Marketing and Communications
Silicon Labs
As always, thank you to our sponsors!
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