.jpeg)
In a significant gesture of acknowledgment and appreciation, Don Graves, the outgoing U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce, has penned an eloquent letter to Duvi Honig, the Founder and CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce. This correspondence not only reflects the deep impact of Honig’s work but also marks a milestone in the realm of public-private partnerships.
One standout initiative highlighted by Graves is the organization of the inaugural National Chambers of Commerce Leaders Roundtable introduced by the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce. This groundbreaking event was held in Washington D.C. under the chairmanship of Duvi Honig and Deputy Secretary Graves himself. For the first time in history, this event brought together a wide spectrum of influential leaders from various sectors.
The group consisted of the top 30 US presidents of Chambers of Commerce. The new initiative introduced by the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce called "The National Chamber of Commerce Leadership Roundtable" Was hosted by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and Deputy Secretary Don Graves, in partnership with the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce and OFBNP National Partners, marked the first of its kind in bringing together top leaders in the field of commerce.
.jpeg)
The roundtable facilitated meaningful dialogue and cooperation among chamber leaders nationwide, thereby inspiring grassroots economic growth. By establishing a framework for engaging chamber presidents across the country, this initiative has set a precedent within the U.S. Department of Commerce. It benefited numerous sectors and chambers throughout the United States, facilitating a bottom-up, personalized approach to economic development.
The event was held at the United States Department of Commerce in Washington D.C. Headquarters, was Hosted by Deputy Secretary Don Graves and Acting Under Secretary Eric Morrissette, Minority Business Development Agency, included opening remarks by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo.
This new initiative revolutionized the Relationships between the Federal government and local chambers of commerce to help provide an intimate platform for collaboration, networking, and exchange of ideas across the United States.
Duvi Honig, the Founder and CEO of the Chamber, highlighted in his opening remarks the challenges faced by the Orthodox Jewish community in the United States. He emphasized to the Secretary how the Orthodox Jewish community is not just underserved, but rather not served at all by the US government.
Honig continued highlighting the need for change calling for a direct partnership to be established between the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce and the US Department of Commerce. Calling for inclusion of the Orthodox Jewish community's needs in government programs, to help our communities businesses succeed on all levels and in all sectors.
The Round table included the participation of heads of various bureaus and interagency partners, such as the White House, Treasury, Small Business Administration, FEMA, EDA MBDA and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
In his heartfelt letter, Graves commended Honig's visionary leadership and the Chamber's relentless efforts to drive economic progress through collaboration and unity. This recognition cements the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce's position as a beacon of innovation and a catalyst for meaningful change in the landscape of economic collaboration in the U.S.
"As we anticipate the future," Graves wrote, "I express my gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with you and extend my thanks for your dedication and camaraderie in aiding to fortify the United States by bolstering our economy. The Chamber continues to lead the charge in economic inclusivity on a National level, it sets a shining example of how unity can drive success and prosperity for all.”
Sincerely,
Don Graves
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Deputy Secretary of Commerce
Washington, D.C. 20230
