[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 209 (Friday, December 3, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1312]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CONGRATULATIONS ON THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LGBT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 
                              OF ILLINOIS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE QUIGLEY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, December 3, 2021

  Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the LGBT 
Chamber of Commerce of Illinois on their 25th Anniversary.
  In 1995, Tracy Baim of Lambda Publications and Kevin Boyer of 
Communications Management, Inc. saw a need for a local chamber of 
commerce dedicated to gay- and lesbian-owned businesses. Joined by 
three other business owners, they launched the Chicago Area Gay and 
Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. Their goal was to have 30 members by the 
first organizational meeting in March 1996. By the time the meeting was 
called to order, the Chamber had grown to include more than 80 
businesses.
  Today, the Chamber serves a roster of over 300 members, and is still 
growing quickly. These members are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender 
(LGBT) business owners, as well as ally-run businesses. Together, 
member businesses employ over 2,000 people in the Chicago area, with 
gross revenues that exceed $200 million. The Chamber fulfills its 
mission by promoting economic opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals in 
the state of Illinois by serving as an advocate and resource for 
businesses that are committed to equality.
  On December 7, the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois will come 
together with sponsors, corporate partners, members, and friends to 
celebrate its 25th Anniversary.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 25th 
Anniversary of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois. I am honored 
to have such an exceptional organization in my district.

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