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BUILDING INCLUSIVE WORKPLACES IN A SHIFTING LEGAL LANDSCAPE

Wednesday, September 10, 2025 (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM) (CDT)

Description

BUILDING INCLUSIVE WORKPLACES IN A SHIFTING LEGAL LANDSCAPE
📅 Wednesday, September 10, 2025

🕛 2:30 - 4:00 PM
📍 Virtual Event via Zoom

Chamber members are invited to join our colleagues at the Plexus LGBT & Allied Chamber of Commerce for an upcoming webinar, Building Inclusive Workplaces in a Shifting Legal Landscape. We are proud to collaborate with Plexus to bring this important topic to our members.

OVERVIEW

As businesses navigate an evolving environment impacting health care access, marriage benefits, gender identity documentation, and more, assessing inclusive practices is no longer optional—it’s essential. Proactive strategies help companies uphold their values of belonging and equity, which in turn drive recruitment, retention, and innovation.

This session will explore potential rollbacks to rights and benefits impacting LGBTQ+ employees and actionable steps employers can take to maintain inclusive, affirming workplaces. We’ll also examine what equitable benefits really look like and share best practices for implementation across organizations of all sizes.

MEET THE PANELISTS:


Shawnie Hawkins (she/her) Senior Director, Workplace Equality Program Human Rights Campaign (HRC)	Sarah Warbelow (she/her) Senior Vice President of Law, Policy & Research Out & Equal Workplace Advocates	Katie Vlietstra Wonnenberg (she/her) Principal Public Private Strategies
Shawnie leads efforts to advance LGBTQ+ inclusion in corporate America through HRC’s Corporate Equality Index and workplace best practices. HRC is the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, working to ensure that every individual can live openly and equally in the workplace and beyond. Read about Shawnie’s work in HRC Magazine.	Sarah is a nationally recognized expert on LGBTQ+ law and policy. At Out & Equal, she leads the organization’s efforts to equip Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and organizations worldwide with the tools to build cultures of belonging. Her work spans legal research, policy analysis, and training that help employers navigate shifting landscapes while centering equity and inclusion. Learn more about Out & Equal. Read Sarah Warbelow’s article: “The Equality Act and the Path to LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion”	Katie is a seasoned public affairs and policy expert who advises companies, nonprofits, and associations on navigating today’s complex policy environment. In addition to her role at Public Private Strategies, she leads the Public Policy & Strategy team for the National LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), the largest advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBTQ-owned businesses. Through her work, Katie helps businesses and policymakers align on strategies that protect inclusion and foster equitable growth. Learn more about Public Private Strategies.

WHY ATTEND?

Whether you’re a small business, a multinational corporation, or an NGLCC affiliate chamber member, this conversation will equip you with insights to prepare for potential policy shifts and reinforce your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

By registering and/or attending a Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce program or event, you agree to Chamber's Terms of Use & Policies.

Pricing

This program is complimentary to Chamber Members and guests.

Virtual

Event Contact
Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce
(832) 510-3002
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Wednesday, September 10, 2025 (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM) (CDT)

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Business Education
Learning Webinar
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