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How can you tell if a destination is right for an LGBTQ business meeting? The simplest and fastest way is to look at how that place treats its homegrown LGBTQ businesses. After all, if a city has a welcoming and supportive business ecosystem for queer locals, that’s a sure sign that every resource you need for a memorable LGBTQ meetup is already present and abundant.
Such is the case in Sacramento, as these two LGBTQ professionals will tell you. Samuel Jones and Fred Palmer respectively serve as Board Chair and Executive Director for the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce (SRCC). You heard that right—this economic engine is solely dedicated to fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and supportive business climate for LGBTQ and allied professionals.
Samuel and Fred took the time to share what makes the queer business community in Sacramento so special—and why they work so hard to ensure even more doors keep opening for LGBTQ businesspeople.
How has Sacramento’s business environment supported your own professional journey and endeavors?
Fred: I have served with SRCC in many capacities for over 18 years and have watched it grow into what it is today. As an owner of a small business, Outword Magazine, I have also been a member of the SRCC for 21 years. The support I have received from SRCC and the elevation of my small business has increased its exposure and prosperity greatly with new clientele, supporters, and advertisers. Without SRCC, my business’s prosperity and growth would have negatively been impacted and would have not flourished in the ways that it has since becoming a member.
Samuel: As board chair, the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce aligns with many of my personal and professional goals. My passions and professional successes have consisted of supporting students by contributing annually to Sac State’s Advancement office to ensure students’ basic needs are met with scholarships, housing, and food. As a member of the SRCC, I can continue this passion through supporting the future LGBTQ entrepreneurs and business owners through our foundation’s scholarships and initiatives.
What’s your favorite aspect of LGBTQ life and community in Sacramento?
Fred: I love the amount of diversity we have within our LGBTQ community and the partnerships we have that allow us to create such a strong community.
Samuel: Having lived in Los Angeles where the community is large and spread out, I find that Sacramento is a small community with a large heart. I get to meet people from all walks of life by attending special events throughout the year. Then I get to see those people repeatedly, which helps me start new friendships and truly get to know someone. I have lived here for 12 years and can say that I have friendships that last, and I get to collaborate and celebrate with others throughout the year.
What makes Sacramento an ideal meeting place for LGBTQ professionals?
Fred: As a Capitol city, we have a lot to offer folks to live and work in our region. I think Sacramento is ideal to attract and retain new talent while fostering continued growth.
Samuel: It is an easy and reliable community to network. It is affordable and has easy access to San Francisco or Tahoe. You can experience many things both within and around Sacramento…from hiking and biking to wine-tasting and theater.
After business is done for the day, what destinations or activities would you recommend to LGBTQ professionals?
Fred: It really depends on what people like! We have an abundance of outdoor activities, nightlife, arts, and local LGBTQ sports leagues. Also, depending on the season, there are tons of LGBTQ events including Pride, Drag Events, Drag Bingo, etc. A little something for everyone.
Samuel: Get out and about and attend events, happy hours, and get to know the community. Get involved and volunteer to be part of what is happening in Sacramento.
There you have it: if you’ve been looking for a meeting place with abundant culture, a tight-knit community, and a progressive outlook…look no further than Sacramento. Of course, that’s not even mentioning the accommodations, venues, and destinations traveling LGBTQ professionals can expect in Sac, all of which you can read about in our ABCs of LGBTQ Meetings in Sacramento.
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