Chicago Small Business Owner Recognized as 3C Congressional Champion

Oct. 13, 2021 (Washington, DC): Luis Suarez, owner of Sanarai in Chicago, was recognized by the Connected Commerce Council (3C) as a Congressional Champion for his advocacy on Capitol Hill. Luis met with U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth’s office to discuss how proposed laws to regulate digital platforms like Google and Facebook could hurt Illinois small businesses.

Digital platforms offer free and low-cost tools that help small businesses find customers, sell their products, and grow. Those same tools became a “digital safety net” during the pandemic when storefronts shuttered and e-commerce, online advertising and remote communications became even more important. As Congress considers several bills that would fundamentally change the way large technology companies operate, or even break up “Big Tech,” small business owners worry that this will hurt their bottom lines as online advertising, marketing, communications and other services become more expensive and less effective.

“It was an honor to participate in these meetings and discuss how important digital tools are to my business. I hope Congress considers this before passing laws that could inadvertently make it harder for my small business to thrive,” said Suarez.

Luis was joined by 15 other 3C Congressional Champions, who met with more than 11 Members of Congress and staff this week to ensure that small businesses are heard by Congress.

“We are 18 months into a global pandemic that has sent shockwaves through the economy and especially through small businesses. Luis is doing a great service by reminding Congress that small businesses are the backbone of our economy and every issue, even technology issues, are small business issues,” added 3C Executive Director Rob Retzlaff.