TAMPA, Fla. — It’s one major step forward for LGBT inclusivity in the city of Tampa.
Mayor Jane Castor made history this week by announcing a new executive order to include NGLCC-certified LGBT Business Enterprises for city contracting opportunities, the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce announced.
“We are very excited that we rolled out our LGBT small business initiative. So now, any certified LGBT business can bid for contracts with the city, so very, very exciting day here in Tampa,” Castor said at the NGLCC International Business and Leadership Conference, held at the Tampa Convention Center.
This ordinance would impact local businesses like BKN Creative in Ybor City, run by husband and husband team Kevin and Brandon Tydlaska-Dziedic.
“It allows us opportunities to bid on projects that are at the city level, which we might not necessarily have been able to do before. So, it’s a huge opportunity for us,” said Kevin Tydlaska-Dziedic.
According to the NGLCC, Tampa is the second city in the state of Florida to have this type of ordinance. Orlando passed a similar order in May.
“While LGBT people can be married in 50 states in America, you can still be fired for just putting your partner’s photo on your desk in 28 of them. 32 if you’re transgender,” said Jonathan Lovitz, who serves as senior VP of the NGLCC. “Mayor Castor and Tampa have said discrimination in business is not accepted here and that everyone should feel welcome in Tampa’s economy.”
It’s a move advocates say will help the Tampa Bay area be more inclusive and welcoming of the LGBTQ community in all areas of life.
“Now we get to be not only out and proud in our own home, we get to be out and proud with our business and really showcase that we really are LGBT owned and operated,” said Brandon Tydlaska-Dziedic.
Emerald Morrow is a reporter with 10News WTSP. Like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter. You can also email her at emorrow@wtsp.com.
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