Due to widespread confusion, the Gary Chamber of Commerce needs to clarify that we are not affiliated with the Black Chamber of Commerce. In no way are we suggesting that they do not have the right to exist, but it is necessary to alert our members and prospective members that the two organizations are separate entities.
What may have contributed to the confusion was an event hosted by that organization where one of their principal partners was introduced by the emcee as the Executive Director of the Gary Chamber of Commerce. There was no attempt to rectify that mistake by the emcee or the individual. In other instances, individuals have attended events thinking that they were supporting the Gary Chamber of Commerce. The latest incident involves a business that joined the Chamber, thinking that it was the Gary Chamber of Commerce. Realizing their error, they asked to be refunded the membership fee they paid, which totaled several hundred dollars, and were denied. According to the communication we received, they are considering legal action.
Our message is designed to avoid confusion of this sort in the future. The purpose and mission of the Gary Chamber of Commerce is to support our members and all businesses in the city of Gary and beyond. Whatever their purpose is, it's their right.
Respectfully,
Charles “Chuck” Hughes
President / CEO
Gary Chamber of Commerce