The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, which recently adopted a statement of solidarity to fight racism, is conducting its annual Diversify Summit on Friday as a virtual seminar and discussion session to provide a timely platform for diverse owners and professionals to discuss their business challenges and opportunities.
The half-day zoom event on Friday will highlight diversity, inclusion and the 21st century workplace and will include a keynote address by University of Southern California Professor Manuel Pastor on “Inclusion, Growth, and Community” in the wake of COVID-19.
Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Chattanooga Chamber, said the ongoing protests in the wake of the death of George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis police spotlights the high cost of racial and economic inequality and the need for a more inclusive economy and diverse workforce.
“Between COVID-19 and systemic racism, we essentially face two pandemics in our country right now,” Gillenwater said. “This isn’t easy. We present Diversity as a safe forum for drawing inspiration from one another as we unite to fight racism, intolerance and injustice.”
Friday’s zoom session will also feature breakout sessions and a panel discussion with local leaders. Full registration ($15) includes Q&A with presenters and access to recordings after the event.