Appreciating Customer Diversity is Key to Running a Thriving Business, According to These TX Competes Members

Texas businesses know better than anyone the benefits of projecting a culture that’s welcoming and inclusive. They know that’s the key to success, whether you’re a local mom and pop or a global corporation.So it makes sense Texas’ business owners should want to foster that attitude statewide. What’s good for Texas’ business community is good for the whole state’s economy—which is why so many businesses are joining Texas Competes, a coalition dedicated to making the business case for why our state should ensure fair treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people.Bob Paluzi, who owns El Paso’s Custom Jeans, says appreciating customers’ diversity isn’t just a boon to his business—it is his business. Keeping his business alive depends on being able serve customers of all kinds:

"Here at Custom Jeans USA.com we know there's not one fit for all. Every designer has a unique fit for their jeans, and we know every one of our customers is unique too. Doing well in business is about keeping our door open to all customers—and treating everyone fairly and equally. No one should be turned away from a great fitting pair of jeans just because of who they are. That's why we're proud to support the Texas Competes business coalition for LGBT equality."

David Marcus is a certified public accountant and a partner at Marcus, Fairall, Bristol + Co., PLLC. As an accountant, his business is money—not judging his customers based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. That’s why he makes a point to let customers know his business is open to everyone, and he thinks that should be the rule across Texas:

"From a business standpoint, a client is a client. We wouldn't allow the color of someone’s skin, their religious belief, or who they choose to love, to enter in to our decision on whether we should accept a client. To keep Texas open for business to everyone, we must take a stand to ensure that all members of our community and our state are treated equally under the law, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We are proud to join Texas Competes coalition for fair and equal treatment of LGBT Texans."

If you agree with these local business owners that a Texas that welcomes all people—regardless of who they are or who they love—is a Texas that will continue to thrive economically, consider joining our Texas Competes coalition.Click here to learn more and sign the pledge.