The Importance of Inclusion and Leadership: An Interview With Representative Chris Pappas (D-NH-1)

By Mary Hanula

The IFA recently launched the Franchising Pride Council, a new initiative from the Foundation's Diversity Institute. The Pride Council serves as a new network for LGBTQ small business owners and employees across the nation, to provide opportunities for mentorship, discussions of best practices and to be a forum where people can share their experiences to help others. The first annual Pride Council Reception took place last week as part of the 2019 Franchise Action Network Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. In attendance was Representative Chris Pappas (D-NH-1), who spoke to members about inclusion and leadership. IFA’s Mary Hanula interviewed Pappas and discussed why this new initiative is so important.

What brings you to this reception?

Any time you can support the business community and support the LGBTQ community at the same time, it’s a great event. I’m really encouraged to see the Pride Council get off the ground to respond to not only the needs of businesses across the country, but to ensure that there’s an inclusive economy. We all thrive when everyone participates, when everyone’s respected on the job and when everyone is protected by the laws. That’s a message we have to continue carrying forward.

What is your previous knowledge of the franchising world?

My knowledge extends to the people I know from around my district that operate local businesses. I hear quite often from folks that have franchise businesses in New Hampshire talk about workforce issues, challenges around healthcare, infrastructure…you name it! These people are looking to Washington for some practical solutions to help not only their own business to succeed, but to help our overall economy succeed.

How would you say the LGBTQ community creates a positive impact on franchising?

Well, I’ve seen it in the business I run that when you have a welcoming environment for all your workers, you have a stronger team. That extends to the services you provide for people, the type of customer service you have and the way you can engage the larger community – it sends a nice positive message. I think LGBTQ workers and business owners have an incredible role to play in our economy, but also in informing the rest of the country about their experiences and ensuring that we have laws that are going in the right direction to protect everyone.

Do you feel that this Council will garner more widespread recognition of the change we can bring to franchising?

Absolutely. Both within the franchising community, but also within the larger business community. I think it’s really important that folks are creating an inclusive and open environment. When you do that, you unlock the potential of each and every individual in each and every business. There’s a story to tell there. This is a great way to bring people together to communicate that message.

What was one highlight from the reception for you?

I’ve met folks from so many different franchise companies that are also located in my district. Just to hear the longevity of experience from some of these business owners who are here is really impressive. Coming to an event like this is really important for policy makers to hear that message and know the significant value in these members coming to Washington, D.C. to represent their business. I’m really glad they are here, with every person having a fairly different story, but being united by the fact that they all have this shared experience of operating a local franchise.