The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce will host its second LGBT Business Summit, providing an opportunity to network and grow as a business community.
The March 6 networking event will include breakfast, an open keynote address, two breakout-discussion sessions, lunch, a panel discussion on what it means to be an ally, and a main keynote address.
“This is an exceptional opportunity to spend the day with the Lehigh Valley’s LGBT business community and allies. For those in the LGBT business community, the summit will empower, motivate and inspire you,” said Angela DelGrosso, vice president of Business and Diversity Councils of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.
The first breakout session will include “Power of the LGBT Dollar” and “Transitioning with your Transgender Employees.” The second session will include “HR Diversity & Inclusion” and “Resources for Starting Your Own Business.”
Following lunch, a panel discussion will be held and Eric Alva, an Iraq War veteran and LGBT-rights activist, will provide a keynote speech. Alva stood next to President Barack Obama as he signed the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Repeal Act of 2010. Alva is a former spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign.
Amber Hikes, the executive director of the Philadelphia Office of LGBT Affairs, will also give a keynote speech. Hikes develops policy and serves as the principal advisor to Mayor Jim Kenney on issues affecting the LGBT community. Hikes also previously served on the boards of William Way LGBT Community Center, Identity Kit Project and Mountain Meadow Camp, and was a long-time organizer for the Philadelphia Dyke March.
The first LGBT Business Summit was held last year and was created by the LGBT Business Council of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.
The LGBT Business Council originally held its signature event, the LGBT Wedding Expo. However, after same-sex marriage was legalized, the council found the Lehigh Valley vendors to be very inclusive and felt there was no longer a need, DelGrosso said.
“We then created the LGBT Business Summit for professionals in the LGBT community and allies to learn more about being an out professional or an inclusive workplace,” DelGrosso said.
“For allies, this summit will help you with your very-important role as a coworker, employer or friend. Creating an inclusive and diverse work environment is imperative in 2018 and we are here to help.”
The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce will host its second LGBT Business Summit 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. March 6 at Moravian College, 1107 Main St., Bethlehem. For more information or to get involved, visit www.lehighvalleychamber.org.