JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville LGBT Chamber of Commerce Founder and CEO David Vandygriff knows what it’s like to need support in the business community.
Vandygriff (he/him) said that after he moved from Washington, D.C., to Jacksonville, he was fired from his job because he was gay.
“I was here when we passed the Human Rights Ordinance to include LGBT in public accommodations, housing and employment,” Vandygriff said, noting an important moment for the LGBTQ+ community in Jacksonville.
He said that’s when he recognized a void in the business community.
“After the HRO, I saw a need for a Chamber of Commerce because, as a small business owner, there was a lack of that network and professional networking as well,” Vandygriff said. “So through that, we hope to continue to grow and by growing, you’re being out and visible, which helps our community.”
Vandygriff explained that the local LGBT Chamber focuses on creating networks among LGBTQ+ and allied businesses.
He said that their efforts help increase revenue among the businesses, which then goes back into the community with an increase in charitable giving.
“So far, we’ve seen great results from that, and we’ll be continuing to grow into other areas,” he said.
One way the Chamber hopes to grow is through a membership drive during June for Pride Month. They are offering memberships at a discounted rate (down from $360 to $250) through the end of the month.
To learn more, email info@jaxlgbtchamber.org.
The Chamber is also hosting several events through the end of Pride Month that are open to members and non-members:
Pride Luncheon
The 2025 Pride Luncheon will be at Blue Fish Restaurant & Oyster Bar on St. Johns Avenue on Sunday, June 22.
The cost is $40 for members and $55 for non-members.
There will be a panel discussion with Black transgender business owners.
To RSVP, email info@jaxlgbtchamber.org.
Queer Quench Happy Hour
The Chamber hosts a monthly happy hour from 5-7 p.m. at Hardwick’s on East Adams Street.
This month it will be on Thursday, June 26.
To learn more, visit JaxLGBTChamber.org.
Stonewall Weekend
Local events celebrating the 56th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising kick off with a happy hour from 7-10 p.m. on Friday, June 27, at InCahoots Nightclub.
Big Gay Picnic
The third annual Big Gay Picnic will be from 12-4 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, at Willowbranch Park in Riverside.
Free hamburgers and hot dogs will be provided while supplies last, and free vendor spots are available.
To learn more, click here.
