As led by moderator Justin Nelson, co-founder of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, this highly attended panel included much discussion about the challenges many high-level gay executives face in corporate America. Joining Nelson on the panel were Sally Susman, Senior Vice President of Global Communications at The Estee Launder Companies, Inc., Walter Schubert, Chairman and CEO of the Gay Financial Network (launched in 1998), and Niels Minghe, who was a last-minute replacement for Klaus Weinrich of Voelklinger Kreis, and whom offered a German perspective to corporate environment.

Susman led the discussion, describing her experience in the upper echelon of corporate business. She stated that "being a lesbian has helped me in my career." She cited that being a lesbian forced her to work harder than others to earn her position more and stated that if she were a straight woman, there may have been a different vibe in the room consisting of predominantly men. She also cited how being a mother has also aided her work ethic.

Schubert continued the discussion, by stating that when dealing with straight coworkers, there should exist a drive to "make our issues their issues." He explained an account where a co-worker asked him why he should be concerned about a certain gay issue, to which Schubert countered and changed that person's mind. Schubert further added that "the coming out process is for everybody. It is storytelling." Susman added an example of how her superior had defended gay rights in front of a reporter from a magazine who made a callous remark in casual conversation while trying to get Estee lauder to buy advertising space. She added that this same attitude toward the reporter may not have existed had she not been there after many years of proving her worth and gaining his respect.

Minghe added that "there is so much money in business. I think we should take our fair share." He commented about the environment in Germany, and contrasted the differences between even the most conservative German companies and most American companies. By appearance, American companies are moving forward, but still have far to go.

Still, Susman made the observation that corporate America is far ahead of government in regard to advancing gay rights. She stated that corporate business will progress, which will cause the government to follow suit. She also cited that the cosmetic line to earn the largest profit this past year is MAC, which prides itself on accepting a diverse customer base, and whose previous ad campaigns have included both RuPaul and Sir Elton John.

Schubert urged the audience to speak up anytime there is injustice. He commented that there are many times when people are silent about various issues, which does not lead to change. Schubert added that in the professional environment, there are a "number of opportunities to use what you know to benefit those who consume."

More of Fred Shelley's writings can be found at www.haydenism.com.