[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 11, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H2174]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1900
         RECOGNIZING BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF SUMMIT COUNTY

  (Mrs. SYKES asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Black Chamber 
of Commerce of Summit County and cofounders Robert DeJournett and Misty 
Beasley as Ohio's 13th Congressional District Champions of the Week.
  One year ago I had the honor of attending its kick-off event in 
Akron, and I was truly inspired to see so many people support this 
catalyst for change.
  After an economic study was commissioned, it was determined that 
Akron's Black population, who represents nearly one-third of the 
region--yet, the report highlighted through the Elevate Akron report 
that there was purposeful, intentional, and systemic exclusion from 
economic growth and job opportunities for Black people in the region.
  Left unaddressed, this gap has threatened innovation and prosperity 
not just for Black Akronites but for the entire region.
  Mr. DeJournett and Ms. Beasley created the Black Chamber of Commerce 
of Summit County to reverse that trend, enabling Black businessowners 
to take their rightful place in the economic ecosystem with the right 
support, connections, and capital to allow Black businesses to survive 
and thrive.
  In the first year, the chamber has counseled dozens of small 
businesses on finances and website development, helped them compete for 
natural resources, and connected local leaders to maximize growth.
  Congratulations to Robert DeJournett, Misty Beasley, and the entire 
membership of the Black Chamber of Commerce of Summit County on a 
successful first year and being named the 13th Congressional District 
champion of the week.

                          ____________________