Greater Phoenix Equality Chamber of Commerce (GPECC)

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

Our Mission

The purpose of the Greater Phoenix Equality Chamber of Commerce (GPECC) is to provide an inclusive business environment by fostering growth, visibility, outreach and professional development opportunities within out LGBTQ+ and allied communities. Any person, association, corporation, partnership, or business entity that supports the purpose of this organization as specified shall be eligible to apply for membership. Membership is open to any business or person interested in the declared purposes of the association.  A person seeking membership will be accepted as a member of the GPECC upon submission, receipt, acceptance and processing of the required online registration application and dues.

The following Terms & Conditions are applicable to all membership types, including both business and networking members.

The GPECC recognizes that some of its members (each a “GPECC Member” and collectively “GPECC Members”) already have codes of conduct that are specific to their organizations and to which their employees must abide. The GPECC views that its Code is aligned to those company-specific codes that already exist, and encourages its other members to undertake the initiative of establishing codes of conduct for their own workplace.

Membership Renewals

All GPECC memberships are for the specific and sole use of the registered business or individual for whom payment is made and are non-transferable. Fees are non-refundable and subject to change at membership renewal time. A member agrees to pay and remain current in the payment of fees upon expiry of its term in order to continue as a member. In order to join the GPECC you will need to complete the online application form and pay your annual fee. You will be notified by email when your membership renewal is due. Once a member has registered, their membership will be automatically renewed every 12 months. Membership dues will also automatically be charged using the authorized payment information or members will receive an invoice to be paid immediately upon receipt in order to maintain active membership.

Membership Termination

Membership with the GPECC may be terminated for the following: (a) Any member may resign from the GPECC upon written request to the board of directors; no refunds of membership dues shall be issued to resigned members, except by decision of the board, (b) any member will be expelled automatically for nonpayment of annual renewal dues, unless otherwise extended for good cause; (c) Any Member may be expelled by two-thirds vote of the board, at a regularly scheduled meeting thereof, for conduct unbecoming a member, or violation of the GPECC “Standards of Ethics” Policy (See below).

In applying for membership with the Greater Phoenix Equality Chamber of Commerce, I agree to abide by its Terms & Agreements, Constitution, By- Laws and Code of Ethics. I irrevocably waive all claims against the Board or any of its Officers, Directors, Members, and Staff as to its or their acts to elect, advance, expel or otherwise discipline me as an applicant or as a member. Further, I give permission to be contacted by phone, text message, fax, e-mail and post mail, and to publish my contact information on the website and other membership directory resources the board may create as a member benefit for the organization as well as use any images of me taken at GPECC events for publication purposes. Members are able to opt out or unsubscribe from receiving notifications at any time by emailing admin@equalitychamber.org

Standard of Ethics Policy

The Greater Phoenix Equality Chamber of Commerce (GPECC) is committed to fostering an inclusive, ethical, and professional business environment for all members. As a condition of membership, all members agree to uphold the following ethical standards:

Integrity & Professionalism

• Conduct business with honesty, transparency, and accountability.

• Maintain high standards of professionalism in interactions with customers, clients, vendors, and fellow members.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility

• Support the whole LGBTQ+ community, and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and in business operations.

• Respect, value, and allow access to accommodations for individuals regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic.

• Avoid discrimination or bias in hiring, promotions, services, and partnership.

Respect & Collaboration

• Treat all individuals with respect, dignity, and fairness.

• Engage in fair business practices and avoid any actions that may harm the reputation of the Chamber or its members.

• Work collaboratively with fellow members to strengthen the LGBTQ+ business community and promote shared success.

Compliance & Legal Responsibility

• Adhere to all local, state, and federal laws, including those related to labor, anti-discrimination, and business operations.

• Ensure compliance with Chamber policies and guidelines.

• Operate in a manner that upholds ethical business standards and community trust.

Corporate & Social Responsibility

• Strive to contribute positively to the economic and social well-being of the Greater Phoenix community.

• Support initiatives that promote sustainability, ethical business practices, and community engagement.

• Refrain from activities that exploit or harm individuals or communities.

Accountability & Enforcement

• Members are expected to self-regulate and uphold these standards in their business practices.

• Complaints regarding potential violations may be submitted to the Chamber’s leadership for review.

• Violations of this policy may result in actions up to and including suspension or revocation of Chamber membership.

By becoming a member of the Greater Phoenix Equality Chamber of Commerce, businesses and individuals commit to these ethical principles, ensuring a professional and inclusive environment for all.

For questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact the GPECC leadership team.