Today is International LGBT+ Pride Day & I can't think of a better way to honor the memory of Stonewall than through the celebration of progress.
This week I had the honor of joining a delegation of business leaders for a roundtable at The White House, focusing on expanding economic opportunities and investments in historically underfunded entrepreneurs.
Our dialogue with esteemed leaders from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the Council of Economic Advisers, The White House is a milestone.
The Biden-Harris Administration is the most inclusive in history! And, rather than resting on what they have already accomplished, they prioritized learning more about a critical yet often overlooked issue—the LGBTQ+ funding gap.
Our delegation presented data-driven examples about how the gap represents not just a shortfall in equity but a substantial missed opportunity for American innovation, diversity of thought, and economic growth. We shared how the unique perspectives and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community are invaluable assets that, when adequately funded, can lead to groundbreaking business solutions, driving forward both social and economic progress. We shared tangible examples for an actionable path forward.
Our focus on removing barriers for queer entrepreneurs is about rewriting the narrative, challenging the status quo, and paving pathways toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for ALL Americans: fair funding access, visibility, safety, and security.
Special thanks to Patrick Driscoll and Kate Balcerzak for orchestrating this briefing, to Brian Richardson, Lorine Pendleton, Vivienne Ming, and Amy Siskind for amplifying our collective message, and to all who were in attendance in the Indian Treaty Room. Our collaborative efforts underscore a commitment to incremental but imperative steps towards change.
Concluding an already incredible day, I was also invited to join the evening's #Pride celebration at the White House South Lawn.
In what felt like a dream, I had the incredible opportunity to share time with Dr. Jill Biden, Ashley Biden, Pete Buttigieg, and many other advocates, leaders, and allies. It was a rare opportunity to connect with many from my network IRL for the first time including leaders like Brad Baumoel, Abbie Strabala, Lorenzo Thione, Wolf Starr, Kelsey Aina, and so many others.
This day is a shining example of "the American Dream". A day where a 1st generation college graduate raised on public aid can have a seat at the table with our Nation's Leaders.
Today is a reflection of how far we've come and a call for the work that lies ahead. Together, we're not just aiming for equity—we're building a foundation for unparalleled innovation and prosperity for all.
As a leader at ON ITS AXIS, 360 Venture Collective & several nonprofit boards I commit to paying this opportunity forward.
#LGBTQ #EconomicOpportunity #Innovation #VC #womeninvc #inclusion #leadership
