I’ve always had a personal interest in politics ever since I was old enough to think for myself and not just assume the political position of my parents and friends. During election years, I listen attentively to political talk radio, read political blogs and websites, and talk politics to anyone who is willing to listen. In our community in Austin, that can be a challenge. Within Texas, Austin is a political oasis. We enjoy an open and accepting populace where a person’s sexuality is just one more facet of the unique and diverse culture Austin celebrates. Yet, if you step outside the city and to a lesser degree, the region, you’ll find a culture in stark contrast to our charming little burg. And it’s that contrast that makes the gay community in Austin settle for relative freedom and acceptance even without statutory rights.

Thankfully we have organizations like Equality Texas, Human Rights Campaign, and the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce fighting those political battles for us. Political action can seem overwhelming to any one individual and these organizations like many others need our individual help whenever possible. The AGLCC, however, does not fight political battles at the capitol building or in Washington DC. We don’t choose between political ideologies or endorse candidates. Our political action comes from the power of the dollar. Think of all the different ways we spend our money… shopping at retail stores, eating in restaurants, hiring contractors, getting insurance, buying a home, the list goes on and on. These are all businesses we support with our dollars. Shouldn’t those businesses support us and our community back?

Regardless of party affiliation, all politicians understand the power of business and commerce. By simply spending your money with the members of this chamber, you’re participating in a political process that stands to level the playing field. Our community represents almost $650 billion in spending power nationwide and we cannot let that power go unused. Voting once a year in November is not enough… we need to vote with our pocketbooks every day of the week.

I hope you enjoy this first issue of Forward Austin. It’s the first magazine ever produced by a gay and lesbian chamber of commerce and we’re very proud of it. Be on the lookout for our next issue in May and don’t forget to check out our members in the magazine and on our website and spend those dollars where it can make a difference!

Spring 2007

A Letter from the President