During its 20 plus years of existence, the Texas Association of African American Chambers of Commerce (TAAACC) has been a leading voice in the African American business community. It is a non-profit organization and serves as a “think tank” for its members, thereby strengthening, stimulating and providing positive advocacy, while disseminating useful data that is beneficial to African American businesses and communities. Rho Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. wholeheartedly supports TAAACC. Black Business Day and Omega Day at the Texas State Capitol occurred as a joint experience in Austin, Texas. On March 31, 2017 approximately 50 Brothers from Rho Xi Chapter and other chapters from around the state attended Omega Day at the Capitol in Austin, TX. The day began with a welcome reception at the newly installed Texas African American History Memorial on the south lawn of the Capitol grounds that was followed by the opening ceremony in the Capitol Auditorium. Bro. Senator Royce West, a member of the Texas Legislature Black Caucus, addressed those in attendance and gave special recognition to the Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. State agency procurement staff and HUB team members manned exhibit booths before and after the morning program in the auditorium. Lunch was provided to attendees in the Legislative Conference Center, after which, attendees were privileged to view a special presentation from Houston based Unity National Bank, Texas’ only Black owned bank. Before departing for the day, the Omega Men moved to the House floor where the Fraternity was recognized and posed for a photo with Bro. Senator Royce West. As members of the Black Community and men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Rho Xi Chapter’s principal interests are intertwined with the economic enrichment of entities and employment opportunities which have provided historic uplift to their community throughout Texas. The Brothers of Rho Xi Chapter continue to speak truth to power and urge members of the legislative black caucus to demonstrate the determination to shift the agenda from rhetoric to reality that will advance prosperity to the Black Community. Rho Xi Chapter was dismayed at the President of the United States’ lack of compassion, that was reflected in his proposed budget, for programs such as Meals on Wheels, support for public school teachers, continued cancer research, a genuine and affordable health care initiative for all Americans and drug treatment programs which provide for effective grass-roots awareness in affected communities. In addition, Rho Xi Chapter shares concerns for the need of authentic police, community “Stop the Violence” efforts statewide, an end to gerrymandering and voter suppression activities. The Brothers of Rho Xi Chapter call for strict accountability in government leadership to eradicate racism in purchasing, employment and housing. Despite the success of Omega Day at the Capitol, Rho Xi Chapter was reminded of their duty to serve Omega and their community. Men of Omega must remain active and vigilant in their service to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and to improving the status of the Black Community.
