DACC & Member companies support declarations denoting racism a public health crisis

The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce believes strongly in the role the business community can play in fighting racism and encouraging diversity, equity and inclusion. The chamber released the following statement, and has asked chamber member businesses to stand with the chamber in its commitment to change. You’ll see them listed below.

As the leading voice of business in the Dayton region, the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes its great responsibility to champion diversity, equity, racial justice, and inclusion in our region. As such, Dayton’s business community stands in support of efforts to declare racism a public health crisis.

We have long known systemic racism has resulted in inequities within our communities, here in Dayton, and across the country. The tragic death of George Floyd has brought us to a national turning point, and now we must task ourselves with tearing down long-standing policies and practices, changing not only our internal biases, but also the institutional racism that has led to deep disparities for our communities of color. In the business world, these disparities undercut the ability of some of our residents to realize prosperity and stifle the growth and success of our economy.

Employers in our region believe we must take further action to ensure the voices of all, especially our black community, are not only heard, but invoke real and lasting change. We can say we are against racism, but what are we going to do about it? The Dayton Area Chamber commits to increased dialogue and awareness of racial injustices, further education for employers and employees to improve diverse and inclusive workplace practices, continued advocacy and leadership in the growth of minority-owned businesses and enhanced engagement with minority business leaders, and strengthened partnerships with the African American community to work against racism. Additionally, the Dayton Area Chamber pledges to use our voice as a leader in public policy advocacy to advance legislative solutions that help the state of Ohio and the Dayton region’s minority population overcome racial barriers.

We stand with Montgomery County, the City of Dayton, the State of Ohio, and its residents as we work jointly to dismantle racism in our community. We will take an intentional look at the effort that is currently underway through chamber programs and initiatives and seek ways to improve. The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce is a partner and ally in creating a community where all can thrive.

In further commitment to this belief, the following Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce member companies have expressed their support for this statement. The organizations named below have also stated the following:

They believe racism is a systemic issue that needs to be addressed; are committed to doing their best to affect change and address racism within their own organizations; commit to considering joining fellow chamber members that are Committed Buying Organizations with the chamber’s Minority Business Partnership; and pledge to seek ways to promote diversity, equity & inclusion within their workplaces and areas of influence.