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As President Trump's administration takes effect, marginalized groups are concerned about its implications. Within 24 hours of taking office, President Trump signed executive orders revoking federal DEI guidelines and targeting transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Will small business owners and marginalized entrepreneurs face challenges under this new administration?
Despite concerns, former Biden administration public affairs director and senior advisor Jonathan Lovitz is optimistic about small entrepreneurs. "Regardless of who's in office, small businesses need access to capital, opportunity, and room to grow," he asserts.
Lovitz emphasizes that small businesses are vital to the US economy and that "everyone on all sides of the aisle agrees" on their importance. "Small businesses are the country's most important job creator," he says.
While federal support for underrepresented communities may diminish, Lovitz believes local and state governments are stepping in with initiatives and support for business owners. "We're seeing energy refocused into state and local economic development opportunities for small business owners," he notes.
Lovitz highlights governors like Pennsylvania's Josh Shapiro, who prioritize small and minority-owned businesses in government contracts. "This is a great time to be reminded of why we've always survived as LGBT business owners," Lovitz says.
He believes small business owners can continue to thrive despite potential political differences by seeking local support and leveraging state and local opportunities. "I've never seen the future look better and brighter," Lovitz asserts.
Every Wednesday, join David and John Auten-Schneider on Living Not So Fabulously for real money stories from the LGBTQ+ community. Explore more episodes on our video hub or watch on your preferred streaming service.