Statement from the National LGBT Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) Regarding the Biden-Harris Administration’s Actions to Protect LGBTQI+ Communities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 6/8/23
The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), the business voice of the LGBTQ community, commends the Biden-Harris Administration for their unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and safety of the LGBTQI+ community. Today’s announcement of new actions to safeguard LGBTQI+ rights and address the growing threats faced by our community is a significant step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
We stand in solidarity with the Biden-Harris Administration in denouncing the enactment of anti-LGBTQI+ laws in over a dozen states, which not only undermine our core American values but also perpetuate cruelty and injustice towards LGBTQI+ individuals, our children, neighbors, and community members. These actions by the Administration demonstrate their dedication to standing up against these attacks and championing the rights and safety of LGBTQI+ individuals across the nation.
The LGBTQI+ Community Safety Partnership by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in collaboration with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is a vital initiative that will provide crucial safety resources to LGBTQI+ community organizations, helping to ensure that these spaces remain safe and welcoming. By building trust between LGBTQI+ organizations and federal law enforcement agencies, this partnership seeks to address the mistreatment that our community has often faced during interactions with law enforcement.
The strengthening of mental health resources, the launch of a federal initiative to address LGBTQI+ youth homelessness, and the commitment to protect LGBTQI+ youth in foster care through new regulations are significant steps towards creating an environment in which LGBTQI+ young people, the future of our nation and our economy, can thrive. These actions will not only save lives but also provide the necessary support and affirmation for LGBTQI+ youth to reach their full potential.
Furthermore, the Administration’s dedication to shielding LGBTQI+ Americans from book bans that threaten their rights is commendable. The appointment of a new coordinator within the Department of Education to address this growing threat is a critical step in defending the civil rights of students. Book banning not only undermines our democracy but also perpetuates stigmas and isolates LGBTQI+ communities. We believe that access to diverse literature is essential for fostering inclusive and nondiscriminatory learning environments.
NGLCC commends the Biden-Harris Administration for these groundbreaking actions and their ongoing commitment to protecting LGBTQI+ rights. As an organization representing the interests of LGBTQI+ businesses and entrepreneurs across the country and around the globe, we will continue to advocate for equality, inclusivity, and the economic empowerment of our community. We look forward to working collaboratively with the Administration to create a more just and prosperous future for all.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lacey Weil, Digital Media & Communications Advisor | press@nglcc.org
About NGLCC:
The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is the business voice of the LGBT community and the largest global advocacy organization specifically dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBTQ-owned businesses. NGLCC is the exclusive certifying body for LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) firms and provides a strong national voice for LGBTQ business owners and entrepreneurs across the country.