Arkansas State Chamber/AIA joins initiative to address inequality

LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas recently announced it is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on a national initiative to address inequality of opportunity.

The Arkansas State Chamber/AIA will join the U.S. Chamber’s national town hall event on June 25 where business and community leaders will discuss concrete actions that can be taken by government and the private sector to address inequality through education, employment, entrepreneurship, and criminal justice reform, a news release said.

“As a partner on this important initiative, the Arkansas State Chamber/AIA will host local and industry dialogues to further the discussion,” the release said.

“The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated industries of Arkansas is engaged in various programs including Leadership Arkansas, our partnership with the Arkansas Economic Developers and Chamber Executives, our Be Pro Be Proud initiative, and our governmental affairs efforts that focus on education, employment, entrepreneurship, and criminal justice reform,” said Randy Zook, president and CEO.

“We are committed to addressing inequality and plan to hold local and industry-related webinars and discussions to engage our members and other businesses in the state on the importance of this issue.”

“The moral case for greater diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace is indisputable, and there’s overwhelming evidence that greater diversity benefits the American economy, businesses, communities and employees,” said U.S. Chamber President Suzanne Clark. “We are proud to partner with the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas on this initiative and help develop a robust plan of action.”