Come Out to Twin Cities Quorum National Coming Out Day Luncheon

Come out (of the closet) to the Twin Cities Quorum National Coming Out Day Luncheon! This exciting event will gather Minnesota’s LGBTQ+ community to celebrate the important work they do for their queer communities, families, and friends. The event will take place on Friday, October 11, at the Minneapolis Convention Center. It will kick off at 10 a.m. with Community Networking and a Marketplace Expo, where members of the community can walk around and explore several wonderful and supportive businesses in their neighborhood. Local businesses, community members, and allies can choose to attend the event in person, virtually, table with their business, or even purchase sponsorship tickets — the possibilities to connect on National Coming Out Day are endless!

Twin Cities Quorum is Minnesota’s local LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce, and they are excited to host their annual National Coming Out Day Luncheon. The luncheon is Quorum’s flagship event and is a great opportunity to connect with and learn from others in the community who navigate running an openly LGBTQ+ business. The event was started 31 years ago as an avenue for connecting community members and allies through the meaningful and personal journey of coming out. Each year, Quorum looks forward to deepening the connections within the queer community.

Quorum has a spectacular staff dedicated to providing a platform for local LGBTQ+ businesses and workers. Rebecca Waggoner is Quorum’s executive director and has had the pleasure of serving her community at Quorum for almost ten years. She says that her role “involves leading a mission of creating a thriving LGBTQ+ and allied business community in Minnesota, through advocacy, education, and connection.”

Waggoner deeply understands the importance of helping organize a queer community, exclaiming, “I think I might have the best job in the world!”

Waggoner encourages business and community members to attend the luncheon because “it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity in both professional and personal spaces. Attendees walk away inspired and empowered, ultimately building meaningful connections within a supportive network.”

The National Coming Out Day Luncheon is a space where everyone can feel seen, heard, and celebrated. Waggoner believes that “Queer representation in the workforce is essential because it makes commonplace diversity, equity, and inclusion while also breaking down systemic barriers. When queer people can show up as their authentic selves at work (or anywhere in their lives), it not only strengthens businesses but creates inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.”

Quorum provides a platform for LGBTQ+ and allied individuals and businesses to connect, grow, and succeed. Waggoner explains that “by offering networking, educational opportunities, and certifications, we empower queer-owned and allied businesses to thrive.”

Quorum truly understands that LGBTQ+ representation in the workforce is imperative for the livelihood of queer people. Waggoner continues, “We also advocate for the economic benefits of inclusivity, showcasing the strength of a diverse workforce. Our events and initiatives create safe spaces where queer individuals can build relationships and contribute to their communities’ economic and social well-being.”

Quorum understands that living openly has a profound effect on many aspects of life, whether it be business or personal. Quorum believes that the realities of living an authentic life are deeper than being “out.” They acknowledge the complexities of choosing to live openly about one’s LGBTQ+ identity and choose to celebrate the joy of living authentically. Waggoner takes pride in her queer identity and she is excited to see everyone at the Luncheon.

“One thing I love about being queer is the sense of community and solidarity. There’s a unique strength in how we uplift and support one another, which makes our connections that much stronger. Being able to live authentically and advocate for others to do the same is something I find deeply fulfilling,” Waggoner says.

Quorum’s luncheon highlights the importance of connecting with others in our community who share similar values, ultimately celebrating the courage and authenticity of coming out. So come out on October 11 to this caring community event and meet all the other people who share the same vision of creating a safe and empowering space for the LGBTQ+ community!

Twin Cities Quorum National Coming Out Day Luncheon
Friday, October 11, 2024, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Minneapolis Convention Center
1301 2nd Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55404
www.twincitiesquorum.com/event-5802153