Reflecting on the 25th anniversary of the Austin LGBT Chamber, I have an amazing sense of pride. We accomplished greatness during a period of complex political and social change.
From our strong financials to our creative programming, 2022 was an outstanding year at the Chamber. Business leaders from the biggest brands and smallest startups united to make meaningful contributions to our economy, community, and culture.
From rocking out at Pride in Local Music to hosting educational sessions at County Line BBQ, we proved Austin continues to be the best place on the planet to live and work. I applaud our staff, board, committees, members, volunteers, and friends for improving the businesses and lives of queer Texans. Personally, I’m honored to have been part of the mission and journey.
I also ask for your steadfast support. As we enter the 88th Texas legislative session, elected officials are already threatening hateful actions, including outlawing corporate DEI training and denying appropriate health care for transgender employees.
Participation in our Chamber is the perfect way to ensure stable democratic systems that allow everyone to thrive and prosper. By our very nature, we are bi-partisan, financially-focused, and socially-minded problem solvers.
So, let’s celebrate the achievements of the past year outlined in this report. Then, we can get back to work collaborating in the present and planning for a results-driven future.
Deirdre Walsh
2022 Austin LGBT Chamber Board Chair