Underscoring The 'State Of Hispanics In Houston', Houston Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce Hosts Data-Centric Hispanic Impact Summit

The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce continued its advocacy and leadership on the issues most pertinent to the Hispanic business community during its trailblazing Hispanic Impact Summit on Thursday. Leveraging key data points, the Chamber underscored the ongoing impact that the Hispanic community is having on the Greater Houston region.

"Hispanics in the region represent one of the fastest-growing - and most impactful - demographic groups in the region," said Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President & CEO, Dr. Laura Murillo. "Whether its comprising more than 40% of the population, representing more than $55 billion in annual spending power, or powering 38% of the region's small businesses, this much is clear - Hispanics are having a significant impact on our region, our businesses, and our economy."

The event, which was underwritten by Wells Fargo, saw another sell-out crowd of business and community leaders, academics, and entrepreneurs. The program featured remarks from Wells Fargo, Vinson & Elkins LLP, the University of Houston's Hobby School of Public Affairs, and from Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. Discussing the recently approved $2.5 billion bond and its economic impact in Harris County, as well as, the upcoming 2020 Census, Judge Ed Emmett emphasized the critical nature of an accurate population count.

"The importance of an accurate population count cannot be overstated," said Judge Emmett. "The census helps determine the allocation of billions in federal dollars, as well as the reach and breadth of essential public services. With all that's at stake, this conversation shouldn't be about who should be counted, but should instead focus on ensuring that everyone is accounted for."

On the heels of a strong year of advocacy work, the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce focused the data-centric dialogue on key issues like the preservation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), protecting DACA recipients, and achieving an accurate population count in the 2020 Census.

"The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will continue to share the hard data and facts that illustrate the true impact of Hispanics in our region," said Dr. Murillo. "Despite the meteoric demographic and economic growth of our community in recent years, there is still so much need in terms of the equitable distribution of resources, access to capital, and representation across all legislative bodies, corporations, and boards. The Chamber will continue to lead the charge in ensuring that the true impact of Hispanics is heard across the region, state, and country.

Along with Wells Fargo, the Hispanic Impact Summit was sponsored by BP, Harris County, the Houston Business Journal, and MassMutual of Greater Houston, amongst many others.