By Tony Archuleta-Perkins–
The Golden Gate Business Association (GGBA) wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended our Annual Gala, Power Connect, held on June 1. Hosted at the vibrant Oasis in San Francisco, the event marked a stellar kickoff to Pride Month. This year, as we gather to celebrate diversity and inclusion, our unity and shared commitment to support our community are more vital than ever.
With the backdrop of vibrant flags, heartfelt laughter, and engaging conversations, Power Connect 2023 was more than a gala—it was a tribute to resilience, a beacon of hope, and a rallying call to action. Oasis, known for its rich history and inclusive ethos, provided the perfect setting for this celebration. We were thrilled to see attendees from different walks of life, each bringing their unique voice to our gathering.
As the evening progressed, a tapestry of emotions, experiences, and aspirations was woven into the fabric of the event. Each shared story and connected glance served as a testament to the strength, courage, and unwavering resolve of the LGBTQ+ community. We reveled in the unique tales of triumph and took inspiration from stories of struggle and perseverance.
While the event served as a celebration, it was also an emphatic reminder of the struggles our community continues to face. The appalling number of legislative measures against the LGBTQ+ community introduced in 2023, over 520 as per the Human Rights Campaign, is a sobering reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.
The time is now to acknowledge and counteract these distressing developments. Our shared platform is more than a means for networking and celebration; it’s an impetus for change. Power Connect 2023 stands as a beacon for this, reminding us of all of our collective responsibility to oppose discrimination and champion equality in all its forms.
The gala’s theme, Celebrating Diverse Communities, was a fitting descriptor for the palpable energy that suffused the event. It was a night of building connections, forging alliances, and further cementing our shared mission. By uniting our voices, we demonstrate the power of diversity, the importance of inclusion, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Power Connect 2023 was also a powerful reminder of the incredible progress we’ve made. We’ve come a long way, but there’s still much work to be done. With over four decades of advocating for LGBTQ+ businesses, the GGBA is committed to building upon this momentum and pushing for further strides towards equality and inclusivity.
In this critical time, it is essential that we continue to support each other, regardless of who we are or who we represent. We must remember that our community’s strength lies in its diversity, and in accepting and celebrating these differences, we pave the way for a more inclusive and accepting society.
In conclusion, Power Connect 2023, for all its glitter and glamour, served as a poignant reminder of our mission and the battles we are yet to conquer. As we move forward, we carry the energy and hope from this event, using it to fuel our drive towards a future free from discrimination.
We once again extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of Power Connect 2023. Your presence and support have not only made the event memorable but also have strengthened the resolve of our community.
Finally, we extend our warm thanks to Oasis for their wonderful hospitality. Their commitment to creating an inclusive space is truly commendable.
As we continue to celebrate Pride Month, let’s carry forward the spirit of unity, resilience, and hope. Let’s remember the power of connection, the importance of solidarity, and our shared commitment to a more inclusive, diverse, and equal society.
For more information on the GGBA, please visit: https://linktr.ee/ggba
Tony Archuleta-Perkins is the founder and owner of Ide8 Real Estate & Eclat Group He has worked in finance for 25 years, ten of those years specifically as a fractional CFO. He has two master’s degrees: an MBA and a Master of Science in Real Estate. In addition to his educational and professional pedigree, Archuleta-Perkins has a passion for advocacy for the LGBTQ+ Community and their allies. He proudly volunteers and serves on two boards here in San Francisco: President of the Golden Gate Business Association and Treasurer of the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance, SF Chapter. He and his husband enjoy international traveling and scuba diving.
GGBA Message from Leadership
Published on June 22, 2023
Tuesday, June 27
GGBA June Board of Directors Meeting
https://tinyurl.com/yc74sb8s
Tuesday, July 11
GGBA July Make Contact
https://tinyurl.com/3khb8ejz
Tuesday, July 25
GGBA July Board of Directors Meeting
https://tinyurl.com/mww2892s
Tuesday, August 8
GGBA August Make Contact
https://tinyurl.com/mrxr7kwu
Thursday, August 24; Thursday, November 9
Chase for Business Presents: LGBTQ+ Business Certification & Readiness Series
Please join Chase for Business’ free series in partnership with the Golden Gate Business Association. Together, we will deliver curated business readiness courses quarterly to help LGBTQ+ businesses grow and scale. They will be presented at different locations around the Bay Area.
They will be hybrid events. Register for the Remote option of the session(s) you want to attend. You will be emailed the remote access link before the day of the course.
GGBA Calendar of Events
Published on June 22, 2023
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