MEDIA ALERT
For the first time in its shared history, the leadership of these Chambers of Commerce which serve the Austin area, is releasing a joint statement of unity. This is in direct response to the January 6th, 2021 unprecedented and violent attack of the U.S. Capitol and of our nation's system of democracy.
Contact Olga Campos Benz at ocamposbenz@gmail.com or (512) 496-8661, if you would like to speak to any of the Chamber Presidents.
Statement on the Attack of the U.S. Capitol and Democracy
As Chamber CEO business leaders in Austin, we honor the fundamental values of democracy and freedom of speech; while simultaneously rejecting all acts of hatred, threats and violence. It’s paramount to be united in support of a peaceful transition of power of the Office of the President of the United States, and to focus on building a supportive, diverse, and prosperous community. Together, we, the undersigned Chambers of Commerce and our members, will move past the unlawful acts at our nation’s Capitol building that occurred on January 6, 2021. We believe in a shared responsibility to a holistic approach to building better and stronger communities by having a diverse thought of lived experiences, voices and contributions. It is through these actions that we can truly have prosperity in education and business while upholding our shared values that include empathy and understanding for all individuals who live and work in Austin.
Fang Fang, President & CEO, Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce
Tam Hawkins, President & CEO, Greater Austin Black Chamber
Diana Maldonado, President & CEO, Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Tina Cannon, President & CEO, Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce
Alyssia Palacios-Woods, President & CEO, Austin Young Chamber
Laura Huffman, President & CEO, Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce
About MECA:
The Multi-Ethnic Chamber Alliance (MECA) was developed by the City of Austin’s Economic Growth & Redevelopment Services Office (EGRSO) as a way to encourage the Multi-Ethnic Chambers to develop programs jointly, for greater dialogue, and to develop economies of scale. MECA members jointly plan, fund, and host three events a year as part of their individual city agreement. Annual events include a targeted industry-focused luncheon & forum, a career expo, and annual holiday celebration. It's members include the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce, and the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce and while the Greater Austin Chamber and Austin Young Chamber are not members of MECA, they do work with MECA on shared projects. Currently, MECA has approximately 1,800 active members representing corporations, small businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.
About the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GAHCC):
Established in 1973, the GAHCC is a 501(c)6 nonprofit organization whose primary goal is to continue the advancement and progression of a strong and stable economic culture for Hispanic Businesses. Our Board and Members represent diverse industries from corporations, small businesses, nonprofits, to governmental agencies that touch all corners of the Greater Austin area. The mission of the GAHCC is to be the leading resource and advocate for the Hispanic business community.
Contact:
Olga Campos Benz, i-Media Strategies
(512) 496-8661 / ocamposbenz@gmail.com
