Professionals In Practice is not only looking to break down walls, but also open doors for the community’s LGBTQ business community.
Professionals In Practice is Barrie's first LGBTQ professional and small business association. In its first six months of existence, the organization has upwards of 50 people and hopes to expand.
Founder Morgan Sheridan told BarrieToday he has the perfect answer for people who question why such an organization is even required in today’s day and age.
“People ask me why we need this type of group in 2019 and I tell them we do because it is 2019,” said Sheridan. “There has never been a group like this in the city and it is very well time we had this type of opportunity.”
Born and raised in Barrie, and being an "out" professional and small-business owner for 13 years, Sheridan didn't feel as though there was group that represented him.
Being out and involved in the local business world, Sheridan thought he knew everyone that was out as well, but the financial advisor said he wasn’t even close.
“I once believed I knew everyone in the LGBTQ and business world in Barrie. I realized through Professionals In Practice that I only know a fraction,” said Sheridan. "It has been fantastic being able to meet others and see this group grow more and more.”
Professionals in Practice will have their first official meeting and social gathering tonight (Thursday, June 20) from 6-8 p.m. at the MacLaren Art Centre, located at 37 Mulcaster St. There is no cost or membership fee to be involved in the organization.
Sheridan says he hopes to see everyone come out to the event tonight to see how important the organization is.
“Most any other field of work has regulations in place for those who may be persecuted against, except that of business professionals,” Sheridan said. “Factory workers or other jobs can take up issues with human resources, but if someone doesn’t want to do business with me because I’m gay, there isn’t much I can do about it.
"It is so important for business owners, big or small, to know that we are a strong group in the community," he added. "We generate a lot of revenue and are vital to the community; now we have an organization to help that to be remembered and reminded.”
